Legal Battle Over Social Media Posts
Scott Iguma, a well-known social media influencer and activist based in Lagos, has been remanded in prison until Monday following allegations of defamation against a real estate company, PWAN. The incident unfolded after Iguma was arrested on Wednesday at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Yaba, Lagos, and subsequently appeared before the Federal High Court in Ikoyi.
Iguma faced a 10-count charge related to the alleged publication of false information and defamation on his Instagram platform, which boasts over one million followers. According to the charge sheet, he was accused of posting content that falsely implicated PWAN in refusing to allocate land to investors who had paid the company.
The police, through Assistant Superintendent of Police and Senior Legal Officer A.O. Nwabuisi, stated that Iguma claimed the founder of PWAN was “the leader of the thieves.” Additionally, Iguma allegedly posted messages on May 27 and 28, 2025, stating: “If anything happens to me, PWAN should be number 1 suspect. If anything happens to my family, nuclear and extended, hold PWAN responsible, even if I fall sick, hold PWAN responsible.”
In another instance, Iguma reportedly posted: “PWAN Real Estate Company, the company that sells receipt to people instead of land… I can boldly state and advise, do not buy property from PWAN for now.” These statements were presented as evidence by the police, who argued that they were false and intended to cause a breakdown of law and order, pose a threat to life, and incite public hatred.
The police claim that Iguma’s actions violated Section 24 (1)(b) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act as amended in 2024, with penalties outlined under Section 24 (2)(ii).
During his arrest, Iguma shared on his Instagram page, @scott_iguma, a statement asserting that the Nigerian Police Force had again engaged in illegal activities by detaining him for purportedly defaming PWAN. He argued that while assuming but not conceding that his videos may have defamed PWAN, defamation is no longer a crime in Lagos State due to its decriminalization under the Lagos State Criminal Law of 2011.
Iguma further claimed that PWAN used the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Yaba Panti, to detain him. His comments reflect a broader debate about the legal implications of social media posts and the responsibilities of public figures in the digital age.
This case highlights the complex relationship between free speech, legal accountability, and the role of social media in shaping public perception. As the legal proceedings continue, the outcome could set a precedent for similar cases involving online discourse and the protection of individuals’ rights in the digital space.
