Bon Bread CEO Explains Lawsuit Against TikToker Over Viral ‘Two-Month Bread’ Claim

The Chief Executive Officer of Bon Bread, Maria Abdulkadir, has defended the company’s decision to initiate legal proceedings against a TikTok user following a viral video that questioned the safety of a loaf of bread allegedly remaining fresh for two months.

The controversy began when a content creator identified as “Love” posted a video expressing concern over a loaf she claimed had not gone bad after two months. Although the video did not mention any brand, social media users quickly speculated that the product was linked to Bon Bread, sparking widespread reactions and debate about food safety and product quality.

In a response shared via the company’s official channels, Abdulkadir said the company took legal action after attempts to privately engage the TikToker failed. She explained that the brand sought clarification on the origin and condition of the bread in question but was unable to obtain a response.

According to her, the viral nature of the video and the growing association with Bon Bread led to reputational damage, prompting the company to seek legal redress. She emphasised that the move was not intended to silence criticism but to ensure accountability and verification of claims.

“Our bread is freshly baked and typically does not last beyond a few days without preservatives,” she stated, rejecting the claim that any Bon Bread product could remain fresh for two months.

The dispute has since triggered mixed reactions online, with some Nigerians urging caution over food safety standards, while others questioned the basis for legal action since no brand was explicitly identified in the video.

Legal analysts note that the case could hinge on the principle of “identification by implication,” where a party may claim defamation if a reasonable audience can link a statement to a specific brand, even without direct mention. However, they also point out that the success of such a case would depend on whether the claims are proven false and damaging.

The incident highlights growing tensions between brands and social media influencers in Nigeria’s digital space, where viral content can significantly impact public perception and business reputation.

As discussions continue, stakeholders say the case underscores the need for both responsible content creation and corporate transparency in addressing consumer concerns.