Scott Iguma Held by Court Over Fraud Allegations Against Real Estate Company
In a development that’s causing quite a stir, popular activist and influencer Scott Iguma has been ordered to remain in custody by the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, until July 21. The order follows his arraignment on charges of criminal defamation against the real estate giant PWAN Group.
With over a million followers on Instagram, Iguma’s voice carries weight, which made his accusations all the more impactful. Arrested earlier by the State Criminal Investigation Department in Yaba, he now faces a heavy ten-count charge that includes false publication and criminal defamation based on posts he allegedly made on May 27 and 28, 2025.
The posts in question accused PWAN Group of collecting payments from investors without actually allocating land, calling the firm “sellers of receipts instead of land,” and even branding PWAN’s founder as “the leader of the thieves.” Iguma didn’t hold back, issuing a dramatic warning that should anything happen to him or his family, PWAN should be the prime suspect.
The Nigeria Police, represented by ASP A.O. Nwabuisi, argued in court that Iguma’s social media claims were false, inflammatory, and posed a threat to public order. They cited relevant sections of the Cybercrimes Act as grounds for his detention, alleging that his intent was to tarnish PWAN’s reputation and incite unrest among the public.
However, Iguma’s lawyers fired back on social media, accusing the police of abusing their power. Highlighting that defamation was decriminalized in Lagos State since 2011, they insisted this was a civil matter being turned into a criminal prosecution for intimidation purposes. They further alleged that PWAN had influenced law enforcement to detain Iguma, specifically naming the Deputy Commissioner of Police at Yaba as involved.
The court has adjourned the case to July 21 for a bail hearing and to continue proceedings. In the meantime, all eyes remain on how this clash between a vocal activist and a major corporate player will unfold in the courtroom.
