The 5th edition of the Bodex Social Media Hangout (BSMH) unfolded in grand style, spotlighting the transformative power of social media in shaping narratives, fostering collaboration, and addressing societal challenges. With the theme “Social Media: The Influence, Power, and Impact,” the event attracted dignitaries, influencers, and stakeholders from across various sectors.

Panellist discussing at the 5th Edition of the Bodex Social media hangout

The event was moderated by the visionary Bodex Florence Hungbo, who guided the discussions with her signature poise and depth. Representing Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Dr. OreOluwa Finnih, S.A. on SDG who delivered a keynote address on behalf of the governor, who was on an official trip.

The presence of Dr. OreOluwa Finnih highlighted the Lagos State Government’s commitment to leveraging social media as a tool for growth and societal well-being.

The Bodex Social Media Hangout is a distinguished media talk-shop fostering collaboration among social media users, professionals, and stakeholders. Focused on promoting responsible digital citizenship, BSMH aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 3) to enhance the well-being of users and encourage cultural and societal advancements through social media.

The event emphasized the urgent need for Nigeria to address challenges such as fake news, cyberbullying, and online harassment.

A recent survey by The Guardian Nigeria revealed that 86% of Nigerians have encountered fake news, reflecting the pervasive influence of misinformation on social stability. Additionally, issues like mental health threats, cybercrime, and privacy concerns were discussed as critical challenges requiring immediate attention.

Through its sessions, the event showcased how social media has become a powerful tool for fostering awareness, driving economic growth, and promoting cultural exchange. Speakers and panelists also examined the darker side of digital platforms, including the rise of cyberbullying, mental health issues, and the spread of divisive content.

The event featured an impressive lineup of speakers and panelists who provided unique perspectives on the influence, power, and impact of social media:
Dotun Babatunde – The Impact of AI on Social Media

Dotun Babatunde explored the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence in the social media landscape, emphasizing its impact on the “attention economy.” He remarked, “We live in an attention economy, where human attention is a scarce commodity.” Babatunde explained how AI-driven algorithms prioritize engagement, often amplifying sensational content, but also creating opportunities for personalized and meaningful interactions. He encouraged users and creators to approach AI with a balanced perspective, recognizing both its potential and pitfalls.

A/Prof Tayo Popoola Ph.D. – Social Media: The Influence, Power, and Impact

Associate Professor Tayo Popoola from the Department of Mass Communication, University of Lagos, provided a thought-provoking analysis of social media’s role in society. He stated, “Social media is a double-edged sword: it empowers the voiceless but also creates spaces for misinformation and toxicity. The challenge lies in managing its influence responsibly.” Prof. Popoola underscored the importance of digital literacy in enabling users to harness the benefits of social media while mitigating its negative impacts.

Akin Olaniyan – Navigating the Social Media Age: Clout, Influence, and the Ethics of the Attention Economy

Akin Olaniyan delivered a compelling critique of clout-chasing in the social media era. He commented, “Give any moron a smartphone, and anything and everything becomes content. To such a fellow, clout-chasing is an end in itself, and the smartphone just makes it super-easy.” Reflecting on the quality of content creation, he added, “I am tempted to believe that their choice of subjects reflects their intellect, with the more empty-headed being the most daring.” Olaniyan called for ethical standards in digital content creation and urged society to value substance over virality.

ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi – The Digital Detective: Solving Crimes in the Social Media Age

The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, showcased how social media has revolutionized law enforcement. He stated, “Social media is not just a platform for entertainment; it’s a valuable tool for law enforcement. By leveraging the power in the mass number of social media active users, we can solve more crimes and make our communities safer.” Adejobi shared examples of cases solved through digital platforms and emphasized the need for digital-savvy officers to maximize this potential.

In addition to the keynote speakers, the panelists brought fresh insights and diverse expertise to the event. Notable contributors included:
Olufemi Oguntamu, CEO of Penzaarville Africa.
Tomiwa Talabi, Founder/CEO of Lagos Life Influencer.
Dayo Oketola, Author, PR Consultant, and Former Editor at The Punch.
Iyabo Ojo, Actress, Filmmaker, and Influencer.

Hosted by celebrated media personality Frank Edoho, the event featured workshops, live sessions, and networking opportunities, creating an interactive atmosphere for attendees. Discussions covered a range of topics, from personal branding and content creation to the role of digital platforms in fostering community and enhancing security.

The panelists emphasized the power of social media in amplifying voices, holding leaders accountable, and fostering a sense of global connection. However, they also called attention to the darker aspects of the digital world, advocating for measures to combat negativity and promote a safer online environment.

Dr. OreOluwa Finnih reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s vision of creating a digital ecosystem that promotes economic growth, cultural exchange, and societal well-being. The event’s mission remains clear: to foster collaboration, combat negativity, and shape Nigeria’s digital landscape for the better.

The Bodex Social Media Hangout remains a leading force in shaping Nigeria’s digital landscape.

In the words of Bodex Florence Hungbo: “Social media is the new oil well, Let us go fetch it.”

By Valentine Idedia

It is regrettable and deeply troubling to read Ebun Adegboruwa SAN’s feeble response titled “I don’t know Justice Osiagor from Adam,” in an attempt to deflect attention and create a diversion through disinformation, all while a court case is ongoing. This has been a hallmark of this simple civil dispute since it began in 2022.

Frankly, no one is concerned about whether Adegboruwa knows Justice Osiagor. He is free to associate with the judge, but that should not interfere with a case of this significance. The real issue is Adegboruwa’s disregard for the judicial process, which has led to unnecessary controversy.

The case centers on Maurice Etim, a minority shareholder and director of several companies within the Edmark Group, and his co-director, Sam Low Ban Chai, a Malaysian businessman under investigation by Interpol for serious criminal offenses, including forgery, fraudulent corporate practices, and money laundering.

Etim claims that his signature was used without his consent for corporate resolutions, financial statements, tax filings, and more. These allegations prompted an official investigation, and the Nigerian Attorney General, in collaboration with Interpol, has uncovered substantial evidence, including over 500 bank accounts opened in Edmark’s name without Etim’s approval.

The focus now should be on Adegboruwa’s behaviour throughout this case. Settlement talks initially occurred but broke down when Etim refused to agree to a condition barring him from pursuing legal action. Since then, Adegboruwa’s legal tactics have taken a concerning turn.

While Adegboruwa can claim not to know Justice Osiagor, his insistence (following his letter to the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court) that it must only be Justice Osiagor that will handle his cases on the Edmark matters is intriguing.

This is despite Justice Osiagor’s earlier decision in a sister case, which favours Adegboruwa, raising serious questions, where Osiagor held that the police should be stopped from investigating Maurice’s complaint of forgery of his signature on a board resolution—a document that is part of Adegboruwa’s defence to the Maurice petition for unfairly prejudicial conduct.

Adegboruwa described Justice Aneke as unfair. He is not satisfied that the matter is before Justice Dipeolu. The distinguished SAN wants the matter returned only to Justice Osiagor.

It appears that it is only Osiagor who can do justice in the legal world of Adegboruwa. Is he saying that all the other justices of the Federal High Court, including the senior Justices in the Lagos Division, are not fit and proper to be judges?

Issues of Judicial Bias
What is even more baffling is the series of petitions, motions, and allegations of bias put up by Justice Osiagor. Osiagor had previously handled a case involving Adegboruwa, creating a potential conflict of interest.

Etim’s counsel requested Osiagor’s recusal from two pending suits, and while Osiagor agreed to recuse himself from one, he refused to do so for the primary petition, where Adegboruwa represented the Respondents.

When Etim’s counsel appealed, Osiagor dismissed the motion for a stay of proceedings and vacated earlier interlocutory orders without formal application. He then appointed a junior auditor, Samuel Ibrahim, against Etim’s request for a more qualified firm.

Later, Osiagor replaced Ibrahim with Ariyibi, who was found to have a close connection to Osiagor’s church—a relationship not disclosed at the time.

Questionable Orders and Interventions
Etim’s counsel opposed the auditor’s actions and filed for intervention, but Justice Osiagor ruled against them. Additionally, Osiagor granted orders restricting Etim’s access to the Edmark Group’s premises in a separate petition, despite objections from Etim’s counsel.

Meanwhile, Adegboruwa filed a new action in the Lagos State High Court for more restraining orders, which were challenged by Etim’s counsel as an abuse of the court process.

To complicate matters further, the police were involved in enforcing these orders, despite questions about their legitimacy. The intervention of the Inspector General of Police was required to halt the unlawful execution.

Etim’s counsel also sought Justice Osiagor’s recusal from the subsidiary petition, which was granted in November 2024.

Public Concern
The public is left wondering: What is the nature of the special relationship between Adegboruwa SAN and Justice Osiagor? Why has Adegboruwa insisted that only Justice Osiagor should preside over this matter?

Justice Osiagor’s emotional outburst in court and his subsequent recusal do little to mask the apparent bias and possible collusion between him and Adegboruwa.

This situation is a clear example of the Tragedy of the Commons, where individuals act solely in their own self-interest, ultimately causing harm to all parties involved. This behaviour reflects a broader problem in Nigeria’s legal system.

Conclusion
Ebun Adegboruwa SAN’s actions in this case are tarnishing his reputation and casting a shadow over the legal profession. His tactics, including judicial intimidation, obstruction of justice, and the abuse of state power, suggest that his earlier image as a human rights advocate may have been a façade for self-serving ambitions.

By manipulating legal processes for personal gain, Adegboruwa risks losing the respect he once commanded and may be remembered not as a defender of justice, but as a legal villain who uses his position to manipulate the law.

Valentine Idedia, Sales and Marketing Specialist and has followed the court proceedings closely. He is also an an avid interest in fighting injustice

Reference: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1FSpUJ9gQU/