A tiktoker by the name of Nwakaego Okoye was sentenced to three years in jail, with an alternative to imprisonment with a fine of N150,000, for defaming popular Nollywood actress Eniola Badmus. The Federal High Court in Lagos State convicted Miss Nwakaego Okoye of defamation on Wednesday, 3rd April, 2024. Okoye pleaded guilty and further agreed to publicly accusing Eniola Badmus of being a pimp who gives out girls to politicians for a fee.
She also confessed she was made to do the video by a friend of hers, Fortune Ibe.
She further said she was promised to be given the sum of two hundred thousand by her friend identified as Fortune Ibe.”I accepted to make the video because I was in desperate need of money for my house rent, that’s why I made the video .”
“I will like to address an issue that has been plaguing social media platforms and online communities: defamatory statements about me,” Badmus said.
“How do you wake up, go on social media and pull people down by making false and negative comments about them and still expect mercy from God? This is someone you do not even know! Common!”
Eniola Badmus further observed, “You have no single fact or evidence but will sit behind your phones and make a smooth video defaming my personality. Why?”
Eniola Badmus made it clear that celebrities are humans too. She mentioned that she has been a victim of cyber bullying. When she was a plus size, she was body shamed. And also on her fitness journey, she still got a lot of negative comments. “Guys, let people live their lives and respect them for it,” Eniola stressed.
“Some of us have muscle to keep it going. How about those that can’t and silently struggle with depression and low self-esteem? We celebrities are humans; we have blood running through our veins like you. No one judges your choice or approach to life in your corner, so why judge me on personal and human actions? More often than not, I ignore these comments or don’t even bother reading them but sometimes, it hits badly and you truly and really want to set an example.”
In conclusion, Eniola Badmus indicated, “I am aware that defamation is a serious matter and can have severe consequences, both legally and socially. It is essential to recognize the impact of our words on others and the responsibilities that come with expressing our opinions publicly.While freedom of speech is a fundamental right, I think it should be exercised responsibly and with consideration for the potential harm it may cause. Above all let’s spread love.”
As social media platforms continue to gain popularity and influence, it is crucial for users to be mindful of the power they hold and the impact their words can have. Responsible online behavior is key to maintaining a safe and decent digital community. Let this case be a lesson to all social media users – think twice before sharing information that may harm others.
