By Trendsetter Tribune 
The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the arrest of a popular content creator known as Mirabel (or “Mirabel Onuoha”) following allegations that she staged or fabricated a rape accusation on social media. The arrest, which took place in Lagos on Thursday, February 19, 2026, has ignited a fierce debate regarding social media accountability and the legal consequences of “clout chasing.”
The Incident: A Viral “Cry for Help”
The controversy began earlier this week when Mirabel posted a series of distressed videos to her TikTok account, claiming she had been sexually assaulted by a high-profile individual at a luxury hotel.
- The Investigation: Following the viral reach of the video, the Lagos State Police Command initiated an immediate rescue and investigation operation.
- The Discrepancies: According to a statement from the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), investigators found significant inconsistencies between Mirabel’s digital claims and the physical evidence at the scene, including CCTV footage and witness statements.
- The Allegation: Authorities now allege that the “alarm” was a coordinated attempt to increase her social media following and potentially extort the individual named in the video.
Police Statement: “No Room for Malicious Falsehoods”
The police have emphasized that while they take every report of sexual violence with the utmost seriousness, false reports undermine the justice system and harm genuine survivors.
“The suspect, identified as Mirabel, is currently in custody and is cooperating with our detectives. We want to make it clear that while the police remain a sanctuary for victims of gender-based violence, we will not tolerate the use of our resources for malicious falsehoods or social media stunts.” — Lagos State Police Spokesperson, Feb 20, 2026
Legal Ramifications and Public Reaction
In Nigeria, filing a false police report and public incitement can lead to significant jail time or heavy fines under the Cybercrimes Act and the Criminal Code.
| Group | Perspective |
| Law Enforcement | Views this as a necessary deterrent against “digital vigilantism.” |
| Advocacy Groups | Expressed concern that high-profile “false alarms” might discourage real victims from coming forward for fear of not being believed. |
| Social Media Community | Divided between those calling for “justice for the accused” and those warning against a “rush to judgment” before a full trial. |
What’s Next?
Mirabel is expected to be arraigned in a Magistrate Court early next week. Prosecutors are reportedly weighing charges including defamation, giving false information to a public officer, and breach of public peace.