Shafi’u Umar, a 37-year-old former special assistant to a Nigerian governor, has been remanded in a correctional facility for allegedly spreading false information about the governor and his wife on social media.

According to reports, Umar was charged with circulating injurious falsehood and engraving matter known to be defamatory. The case was first mentioned on August 26, and the prosecution claims that the defendant committed the offence on July 18.

The prosecution alleged that Umar circulated a video of the governor’s wife, Hajia Fatima Aliyu, “spraying money during her birthday ceremony in spite of the present hardships faced by citizens.” Umar was also accused of sharing a document that indicated that Governor Aliyu failed his Senior Secondary School Examination, scored F9, and is incapable of speaking English.

The defendant had pleaded not guilty to the charge, and his lead defence counsel, Mr. Al’Mustafa Abubakar, made an oral application for bail, which was objected to by the prosecution. The magistrate reserved her ruling on the bail application and adjourned the case until September 18.

In her ruling, Chief Magistrate Fati Hassan stated that the only document before her was the First Information Report (FIR) and that the defence counsel needs to file a formal application for his client’s bail. Hassan ordered that the defendant be remanded in a correctional facility until the next hearing.

The case highlights the growing concern over the spread of misinformation on social media and the need for individuals to verify information before sharing it. It also underscores the importance of respecting the dignity and reputation of public figures and their families.

Umar’s case is a reminder that spreading false information can have serious consequences and that individuals must be held accountable for their actions. The outcome of the case will be closely watched by many, and it is hoped that justice will be served.