By: Bayero Ade
Drama unfolded at the Federal High Court in Abuja as a suspect, Adun Adewale, popularly known as “Coachbanter,” sought to change his plea after initially pleading guilty to charges of cybercrime.
Adewale was arraigned before Justice Emeka Nwite on a two-count charge filed by the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, alleging the dissemination of false information to incite public unrest.
The charges, filed under case number FHC/ABJ/CR/634/2024 by A.A. Egwu, accused Adewale of using his TikTok account (@brodabanter_backup_page) to post a video in which he claimed:
“Police IG Egbetokun busted for colluding with notorious cartel moving cash from CBN vault via Abuja, Lagos airport.”The prosecution alleged that the video was intended to cause public disorder, violating Section 24(1)(b) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024.
In a second charge, Adewale was accused of spreading false information claiming the police chief shielded a cartel involved in the illegal movement of banknotes from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). This charge also falls under the same section of the Cybercrimes Act.
During the court proceedings, Adewale pleaded guilty to the first charge. However, when asked about the second charge, he responded, “I pleaded guilty with reason.”
When questioned by the judge, Adewale claimed he had merely reposted the video, which he found online. His lawyer, O.A. Olaleye, requested time to consult with his client, prompting Justice Nwite to temporarily stand down the case.
After consultation, Adewale’s lawyer argued that his client misunderstood the charges and requested the court to allow him to retake his plea.
The police counsel, Victor Okoye, opposed the request, arguing that Adewale had already confirmed his understanding of the charges in court and was represented by legal counsel at the time. He maintained that the law does not permit a defendant to change a guilty plea under such circumstances.
Justice Nwite adjourned the case to December 30, 2024, for both parties to present arguments on the legal implications of allowing the defendant to change his plea.
The outcome of the case is expected to have significant implications for cybercrime prosecutions in Nigeria.
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