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TikTok ‘Bread Lady’ summoned by Nigeria Police after viral food shelf-life claim

A Nigerian TikTok creator has reportedly been invited for police questioning following a viral video about the shelf life of a loaf of bread, in a case that has sparked a national debate over “cyberstalking” and corporate reputation.

The creator, known online as “Love” (@lovedooshimaa), rose to prominence after posting a video claiming that a loaf of bread she purchased remained fresh for nearly two months. The claim quickly went viral, prompting the bakery brand, Bon Bread, to file a formal complaint alleging fraud, mischief, and cyberstalking.

Social media influencer Lucky Udu made the summons public on Sunday, stating that the creator had reached out to him for support after being called to the Force Headquarters in Abuja for an “interview.”

‘Two Months of Freshness’

The controversy began when the TikToker raised concerns over food safety, suggesting that the lack of spoilage over such a long period was suspicious. However, the bakery at the centre of the storm has hit back, claiming the video was a calculated attempt to damage its brand.

Key Allegations in the Dispute:

  • The Claim: The creator alleged the bread showed no signs of decay 60 days after purchase.
  • The Corporate Response: Bon Bread’s founder, Maria Abdulkadir, stated that their products are freshly baked and typically last only a few days without preservatives.
  • Legal Escalation: After failed attempts to clarify the “basis of the allegation” with the creator, the company resorted to legal action to protect its reputation.

Analysis: Freedom of Speech or ‘Cyber-Mischief’?

This case highlights the growing tension between Nigeria’s booming “influencer economy” and its stringent cybercrime laws. Under the Cybercrimes Act, “mischief” and “cyberstalking” are often cited in cases where online commentary affects corporate interests.

For the bakery, this is a matter of protecting a business built on “safety and quality” from unsubstantiated claims that could lead to a boycott. For digital rights advocates, however, the involvement of the Nigeria Police Force in a consumer dispute raises questions about the use of state security apparatus to settle civil grievances. As Nigerians watch to see if “Love” will face formal charges, the case serves as a warning to content creators that “viral moments” can carry heavy legal consequences in the real world.

‘The Public is Watching’

Influencer Lucky Udu, who has been documenting the fallout, urged the creator to maintain constant communication as the case develops. “A lot of Nigerians want to see how it goes,” he said in a video shared with his followers.

While Bon Bread maintains that it respects “freedom of speech,” it insists that the viral backlash was based on a fundamental misrepresentation. The Nigeria Police Force has yet to issue an official statement regarding the specifics of the invitation or whether a formal charge is imminent.

The outcome of the “interview” at Force Headquarters is expected to set a significant precedent for how food safety claims and corporate “defamation” are handled on social media platforms across West Africa.

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