Rapper Twista Cheese Denies Threatening Video About Tommy Robinson

BIRMINGHAM – Omar Abdirizak, a Birmingham-based rapper known as Twista Cheese, is set to stand trial next year after pleading not guilty to charges related to a video he posted on social media. The video, which allegedly contained menacing content mentioning controversial figure Tommy Robinson, was shared online between August 1 and 10. Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon and who is known for founding the English Defence League, subsequently shared the video with his followers. During a court appearance at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court on Friday, prosecutors dropped a previous charge against Abdirizak for conveying false information. Instead, they have charged him with sending a grossly offensive or menacing message via a public communications network. The 30-year-old rapper, hailing from Sparkbrook, denied the new charge during a brief session before District Judge David Wain. Judge Wain granted Abdirizak unconditional bail until the trial, which is scheduled for January 8. The judge noted that the prosecution did not oppose the bail application made by the defense. This decision allows Abdirizak to remain free while awaiting the trial, where the allegations against him will be examined in detail. The case has drawn attention due to the involvement of Robinson, a polarizing figure in British politics, and raises questions about the boundaries of free speech in the context of social media. Further developments are expected as the trial date approaches.