What began as an online rant has now landed popular TikTok influencer Gabriel Timothy, known by fans as Tumma, behind bars.

The social media sensation is currently cooling off in Kuje Correctional Centre after he was charged with defamation, cyberstalking, and injurious falsehood—all linked to controversial comments he allegedly made about Regina Daniels, Nollywood actress and wife of Delta North Senator, Ned Nwoko.

Tumma had alleged that the actress was involved in several extramarital affairs as he called on her husband, Ned Nwoko’s attention.

However, his fate may change soon. The Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed July 25, 2025, to decide whether he deserves to go home on bail or continue his stay behind prison gates, reports Sahara Reporters.

During the court session on Wednesday, Tumma’s legal team, led by S.M. Oyeghe, pleaded with Justice Yilwa H. Joseph to grant bail, arguing that the charges are bailable under Nigerian law.

“We are only asking that our client be granted bail on liberal terms,” Oyeghe said, referencing constitutional protections on personal liberty.

However, the prosecuting counsel stood firm, saying Tumma hasn’t provided any convincing reason to deserve bail. The judge, Justice Joseph, adjourned the bail ruling to July 25.

Senator Nwoko’s team had described Tumma's words as “vile, reckless, and malicious.” According to the senator, Gabriel dared him and his wife to respond, allegedly hurling vulgar claims that threatened both their public image and private life.

In a strongly-worded statement, Nwoko said: “There is no democracy anywhere in the world where freedom of speech includes freedom to defame, blackmail, or incite hatred under the guise of online influence.”

Legit.ng compiled reactions from social media users below

@Blaq_Oracle: "Regina Daniels get power o. Na so person go talk small, boom! Court straight. Freedom of speech don choke."

@AdaBaby_01: "You don’t go online and drag a billionaire’s wife and expect zero consequences. Na lesson be this".

@DonFlexxy: "But make una talk true — was the guy lying or nah? Abi na oppression we dey witness like this?"

@RealZee: "Internet no get brake again. People just dey talk anyhow without proof. Regina and Ned no send una."

@Musa4Naija: "This one go serve as example. Clout-chasing no be career — especially when billionaires dey involved."