Justice Advocates Demand Police Probe of German Tik-Toker Over Mohbad Cyberbullying
The Coalition of Justice Advocates (CJA), in partnership with OloriEbi Platform Worldwide, has issued a formal call to the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) to investigate alleged cyberbullying linked to their justice campaign for the late Nigerian singer, Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad. The group made this appeal during a press briefing in Lagos, where they condemned what they described as defamatory acts and unlawful processing of personal data directed at their members and families.
Allegations of Orchestrated Harassment
According to the coalition, a Germany-based Tik-Toker is allegedly orchestrating a campaign of cyberbullying through multiple monetized social media accounts. Kayode Adebiyi, speaking on behalf of the CJA, stated that members had been actively supporting efforts to maintain public attention on Mohbad's case since his death in September 2023, providing financial, moral, and social support within legal boundaries.
Adebiyi alleged that the Tik-Toker, based in Düsseldorf, Germany, has engaged in sustained cyberbullying, defamation, and unlawful data processing. He claimed that several social media accounts operated by the individual were used to bully members by manipulating their images, circulating false statements accusing them of wrongdoing, and even alleging assassination plots without evidence.
Impact on Members and Legal Actions
The coalition reported that these actions have caused significant reputational damage, instilled fear for personal safety, and inflicted emotional distress on affected members. Adebiyi emphasized that the Tik-Toker went as far as circulating photographs of members and their children without consent, exposing them to threats and creating an atmosphere of intimidation.
In response, the CJA has urged the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) to launch a formal investigation, preserve digital evidence, and collaborate with Interpol, German authorities, and relevant data protection regulators. Emmanuel Oroko, the legal representative for the groups, disclosed that a petition has already been submitted to the office of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP).
Ongoing Legal Efforts and Optimism
Oroko expressed optimism that the police would act promptly once the petition is approved. He added that additional petitions are being prepared for other institutions, including the German Embassy, and relevant legal departments are being notified to ensure a comprehensive response to the alleged cyberbullying.
The coalition's call highlights growing concerns over online harassment in justice campaigns, particularly in high-profile cases like Mohbad's, where public interest remains intense. The groups stress the need for legal protections against such digital abuses to safeguard activists and their families.
