The police on Monday charged two men before an Iyaganku Magistrates’ Court Ibadan, over alleged false news publication.
The defendants are: Seye Brodiemends,69; and Iwuat Nsidibe, 48.
The duo whose addresses were not stated are standing trial on a three -count charge bordering on conspiracy and false publication.
They each, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The prosecutor, Insp. Adeshina Folaranmi alleged that the defendants conspired to commit the offences between March and April at Odo-Ona Kekere, Ibadan.
He alleged that they made false publication on social media platforms, claiming that one Pastor GF David, of Faith and Miracle International church, is the new TB Joshua of Ibadan, who had come to eliminate Satguru Maharaji and steal his land.
He said that their intent was to cause fear and unrest to the public, knowing that the information was false.
The offences contravene the provisions of sections 59(1), 375, and 517 of the Criminal Law of Oyo State, 2000.
The Magistrate, Mrs Oluwabusayo Osho granted the defendants bail in the sum of one million naira with two sureties in like sum.
She adjourned the case until Dec.15, for hearing. (NAN)
