The defendant appeared before Magistrate Wahab Balogun, following her arrest by operatives of the Zone 2 Police Command, Onikan, and was charged with three counts: conspiracy, publication of fake news, and defamation.
Allegations of Online Smear Campaign
According to the prosecutor, Assistant Superintendent of Police Haruna Ibrahim, Akanji—alongside several unnamed bloggers—allegedly spread damaging content between 2023 and 2025, targeting Anjorin with knowingly false rumours designed to damage her reputation.
Ibrahim told the court that the defamatory posts were deliberately published on Facebook and included images of the actress “in a manner likely to provoke public disaffection.” The defendant was also accused of using obscene or corrupting content to attract social media attention and gain financially from increased engagement.
The prosecution stated that the actions violated Sections 39, 57, and 150 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015, which address the criminality of conspiracy, false publication, and defamation.
Defendant Denies Allegations
Akanji pleaded not guilty to all charges.
The prosecution urged the court to remand her in custody pending trial. However, her defence counsel made an oral application for bail, arguing that the offences are bailable under Nigerian law.
After reviewing the submissions, Magistrate Balogun granted bail in the sum of ₦100,000, with two sureties in like sum. Additional conditions were imposed, although the specifics were not disclosed.
Next Hearing Set for August 21
The matter has been adjourned to August 21, 2025, for trial.
The case adds to a growing number of legal actions tied to alleged defamation on social media platforms, spotlighting the tension between freedom of expression and responsible digital conduct in Nigeria’s online space—especially when celebrities and public figures are involved.