Controversial social media personality and disc jockey, DJ Chicken, has been arraigned before a Lagos court over allegations of making threats against Seyi Tinubu, the son of President Bola Tinubu.
The defendant appeared before the court on charges filed by the prosecution, which accused him of issuing statements deemed threatening toward Seyi Tinubu. The alleged offence is said to have stemmed from content circulated on social media.
During the proceedings, DJ Chicken pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against him.
Following his plea, counsel for the defendant urged the court to grant him bail, arguing that he was entitled to the presumption of innocence pending the determination of the case.
After considering the application, the court admitted the defendant to bail in the sum of #1 million. The bail was granted with conditions, including the provision of a suitable surety, as determined by the court.
The presiding judge ordered that the defendant must comply fully with the bail conditions before he can enjoy the temporary release. The matter was subsequently adjourned to a later date for the continuation of trial.
The prosecution told the court that it intends to present evidence and witnesses in support of the charges during the trial, while the defence is expected to challenge the allegations as the proceedings continue.
The arraignment follows growing scrutiny of the use of social media platforms, where public figures and influencers have increasingly come under investigation over posts considered threatening, defamatory, or capable of inciting public disorder.
Legal practitioners note that an arraignment is a procedural step in the criminal justice process and does not amount to a finding of guilt. Under Nigerian law, every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.
The case has attracted public attention because of DJ Chicken’s online popularity and the prominence of the complainant, prompting discussions about the limits of free expression, responsible use of social media, and the legal consequences of online statements.
As the case progresses, the court is expected to examine the evidence presented by both the prosecution and the defence before reaching a verdict.
Until then, DJ Chicken remains on bail, subject to the conditions imposed by the court, while the judicial process takes its course.
