Court grants Radio/TV presenter bail for alleged defamation, threat to life, cybercrime charge

By Kehinde Ayanwale

OSOGBO (CONVERSEER) – A freelance presenter of a popular radio and television programme, Segun Makinde, has been arraigned before a Magistrate Court in Osogbo on a four-count charge.

The charges, punishable under Sections of the Criminal Code and Section 5 of the Violence Against Persons Laws of Osun State, Nigeria, stem from an alleged incident on 21st May 2025.

Makinde, who freelances with Rave FM and Western Spring Television, was docked for alleged defamation of character, threat to life, and cyberbullying.

According to the Prosecutor, Police Inspector Lamidi Rasaq, the offence is contrary to and punishable under Section 249(d) and 375 of the Criminal Code, Cap 34, Volume 11, Laws of Osun State of Nigeria 2002, and Section 5(1) of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Laws of Osun State of Nigeria.

The Police Prosecuting Officer told the court that Makinde committed the offence against the Chief Executive Officer, Opeolu Oladapo, on the radio and television station on 21st May 2025.

The accused person pleaded not guilty to all four counts, and his defence counsel, Michael Akinwande, sought bail on liberal terms.

The Police Inspector did not oppose the bail application.

In her ruling, the trial Magistrate, M.A. Olatunji, granted bail with two sureties in the sum of Five Hundred Thousand Naira (N500,000), with evidence of required proof before the court.

The matter has been adjourned till 29th September 2025.

Makinde, a freelance radio presenter anchoring a Yoruba programme tagged “Ebami Koya” on Rave FM and Western Spring Television, was alleged to have used the radio and television programme to bring down the reputation of Oladapo by tarnishing his reputation through social media handles.