Doris Ogala Remanded Over Alleged Cyberbullying of Pastor Chris Okafor
Nollywood actress Doris Ogala has been remanded at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre following her arraignment before a Federal High Court in Lagos over four criminal charges.
The actress appeared in court on Wednesday and pleaded not guilty to charges involving the alleged publication of personal materials without consent, spreading false information, cyberbullying and attempted extortion. The case was instituted by Chris Okafor, the founder of Mountain of Liberty and Miracle Ministry.
The proceedings followed two previous sittings that could not continue because Ogala was absent.
During Wednesday’s hearing, prosecuting counsel Tolulope Mokolu requested that the actress remain in custody while he reviewed her bail application and prepared a response. He explained that he had only just received the application.
Ogala’s lawyer, N. C. Atulomah, challenged the request and asked the court to release her on bail. He informed the judge that his client was a governorship candidate of a political party in Abia State and pledged that she would be available for future hearings.
Delivering his ruling, Justice Akintayo Aluko said the defence had failed to establish sufficient grounds for her immediate release. However, he ordered an accelerated hearing of the bail application and fixed October 30 for the next proceedings.
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The courtroom later became tense when Ogala attempted to speak despite efforts by her lawyer and other people present to restrain her.
“I must talk, this is Nigeria, they are using government power to oppress me. My boyfriend is using government power to oppress me,” the actress reportedly shouted.
The judge eventually ended proceedings after the situation became difficult to control.
Following the court session, Ogala took to Instagram to accuse Jerry Eze, Suleman Johnson, Chris Okafor and Abia State Governor Alex Otti of being behind her remand. She alleged that they were afraid she would disclose secrets about them.
The allegations were made by Ogala herself and have not been established by the court. Her bail application is expected to be considered at the next hearing.
