A social media user, Samuel Adeboye Adeyeye, with the username @Swanky, has been sentenced to two years’ imprisonment for spreading malicious falsehoods about the family of celebrity couple Adekunle Gold and Simi.
Adeyeye was convicted after pleading guilty to charges of intentionally circulating fake news on digital platforms.
The convict had claimed that the singers lost their six-year-old daughter, Deja, to a rare genetic condition called Canavan disease.
Following the family’s complaints, security agencies tracked down the internet user, leading to his arraignment.
During the court proceedings, the prosecution presented evidence showing that the post was fabricated with malicious intent to defame the celebrities and cause emotional distress.
Adeyeye admitted to the offence and pleaded for leniency.
Delivering the judgment, the court sentenced Adeyeye to two years in prison, without the option of a fine.
