TikToker 'Tumma' Trial Postponed: Police Unable To Produce Him In Court

Breaking: TikToker 'Tumma' Trial Delayed After Police No-Show

On Monday, the Nigeria Police Force found itself in hot water after failing to bring Timothy Gabriel, better known as TikToker 'Tumma,' to court. The absence of the defendant prompted the judge to postpone the proceedings until April 29, 2025. This delay has sparked widespread criticism, with many questioning the police's motives and the fairness of the legal process.

Gabriel, who has been locked up in solitary confinement for over a month, is accused of making defamatory statements against Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun. The case has garnered significant attention, shining a spotlight on the broader issue of freedom of expression in Nigeria.

What Happened in Court?

According to a source who was present during the court session, the adjournment came as no surprise. "We just came from court, and the police didn't even bother to show up with him," the source explained. "The judge had no choice but to reschedule the case for April 29." This development has only fueled public outrage, with many accusing the police of deliberately dragging their feet to keep Gabriel behind bars for as long as possible.

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One X user, Larry, who has been closely following the case, took to social media to voice his frustration. "This is outrageous! How can the police fail to bring a defendant to court without any explanation? It's time to demand justice and hold these authorities accountable," Larry wrote, calling for Gabriel's immediate release.

Background of the Case

The Federal High Court in Abuja originally scheduled the hearing for March 24, 2025. However, as we now know, that didn't happen. Documents obtained by SaharaReporters reveal that the IGP is not only the complainant but also the driving force behind the case. He accuses Gabriel of cyberstalking, a charge that falls under the Cybercrimes (Prevention, Prohibition, etc.) Act 2025, amended in 2024.

In the first count, Gabriel is charged with spreading false information about the Lagos State Governor, alleging that he is an armed robber involved in embezzling state funds. This claim, posted on Gabriel's TikTok account, OFFICIAL_TUMMA, is said to have damaged the governor's reputation. Under Section 24(2)(a) of the Cybercrimes Act, this offense carries serious penalties.

In the second count, Gabriel faces allegations of sharing a video that allegedly tarnishes the reputation of the Inspector General of Police (IGP). This act, too, is punishable under the same legislation. The charges against Gabriel have sparked debates about the limits of free speech and whether the government is using the law to silence critics.

Arrest and Detention: A Closer Look

Naija News reports that Gabriel's ordeal began on February 6, 2025, when heavily armed officers stormed his home in Mpape, Abuja. He was swiftly taken to the Cybercrime Centre of the Nigeria Police Force, where he has remained ever since. Despite being detained for over a month, Gabriel has not been granted bail, raising serious concerns about potential human rights violations.

Sources close to the case, as reported by SaharaReporters, claim that IGP Egbetokun initiated Gabriel's arrest due to remarks made in his videos. Critics argue that this is a blatant misuse of power, designed to suppress dissent and intimidate others from speaking out. The prolonged detention without bail has only added fuel to the fire, with many accusing the police of intentionally obstructing the legal process to keep Gabriel locked up indefinitely.

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As the case continues to unfold, all eyes are on the Nigerian legal system. Will justice prevail, or will this become another example of the abuse of power? Only time will tell.