Ike Nnachi, Abakaliki
A Magistrate Court in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, has remanded a 43-year-old lawyer, Igwe Nwalo Johnson, in a correctional facility over allegations of cyberbullying and defamation against Comrade Chinedu Ogah, the lawmaker representing Ikwo/Ezza South Federal Constituency.
The charges, filed under case number MAB/616C/2025 by the Commissioner of Police, allege that Johnson and unidentified accomplices conspired in October 2025 to commit criminal acts through cyberbullying.
The prosecution, led by Barr. Eze Chinagorom Ndubuisi of the Directorate of Legal Services, Police Headquarters, Abakaliki, accused Johnson of conspiring to commit cyberbullying, an offence under Section 516A(a) of the Criminal Code, Cap 33 Vol. 1, Laws of Ebonyi State, 2009.
Johnson was further accused of transmitting a live Facebook broadcast using the account of one Amarachi Nweke, allegedly placing Ogah in fear of death, violence, and bodily harm, contrary to Section 24(2)(a) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition and Prevention) Act, 2015 (as amended).
He was also charged with broadcasting content intended to damage Ogah’s reputation by falsely accusing him of a crime, in violation of Section 24(2)(c) of the same Act.
During proceedings, Johnson’s counsel, Barr. Kelvin Nwafor, argued that the magistrate court lacked jurisdiction and sought the transfer of the case to the Federal High Court. He also applied for bail.
Presiding Magistrate Sandra Oyibe noted the constitutional safeguards guiding remand proceedings, stating that while bail could be considered, the remand order would remain in force.
The case was adjourned to 22 December 2025 for further hearing, and bail was not granted.
