A clergyman from Osun State, Niyi Peter, appeared before a Chief Magistrate’s Court in Osogbo on Thursday, September 26, 2024, on charges of defaming popular gospel artist Bunmi Akinnaanu, known by her stage name Omije Ojumi.
Peter faces three charges related to his social media activity, where he allegedly posted a picture of Akinnaanu with the caption “prostitute song,” sparking significant backlash from her fans and colleagues. The controversial post was made in April 2024, around noon, in the Oke-Odo Area of Osogbo.
During the hearing before Magistrate Dr. Olusegun Ayilara, it was revealed that Peter’s actions were considered defamatory, damaging Akinnaanu’s character. The charge sheet detailed that Peter used his WhatsApp number to share the derogatory label, leading to widespread outrage and highlighting the potential harm caused by his comments.
In addition to the defamation charge, Peter was accused of sending Akinnaanu a threatening voice note, in which he allegedly stated she “will perish and never rise again.” These actions have raised public order concerns due to their inflammatory nature.
The charges against Peter reportedly violate sections 373, 88, and 249(D) of the Criminal Code of Osun State, 2002. In court, Peter pleaded not guilty to the charges. His legal counsel, Okobe Najite, requested bail on his behalf.
Magistrate Ayilara granted bail set at ₦1 million, stipulating that Peter must provide two sureties who are civil servants. The court has adjourned the case until Tuesday, October 22, 2024, for further hearings as the legal proceedings continue to unfold in this high-profile case.
