In a closely watched case that has gripped Nigeria’s entertainment industry, a Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday granted bail to Nollywood actress Angela Okorie, who stands accused of cyberbullying fellow actress Mercy Johnson-Okojie.
Justice Emeka Nwite presided over the bail hearing and ruled in favor of the defendant, setting bail at N5 million with stringent conditions, despite opposition from the prosecution.
In his ruling, Justice Nwite emphasized that the prosecution had failed to provide substantial evidence suggesting the actress posed a flight risk. “Therefore, I am minded to grant the bail in the interest of justice,” the judge stated, underscoring that while bail remains within the court’s discretion, such discretion must be exercised both judicially and judiciously.
The decision came after arguments presented by Okorie’s legal counsel, Earnest Nwoye, who had formally moved the bail application before the court.
The bail terms imposed by Justice Nwite are notably rigorous. Okorie must provide one surety in the same sum of N5 million, with the surety required to meet specific criteria:
- The surety must be a civil servant of at least Grade Level 13
- An affidavit of means must be deposed by the surety
- The surety must present their appointment letter and documentation of their most recent promotion
- Both Okorie and her surety are required to submit two passport photographs to the court registrar
- The surety’s residence must undergo verification by the court registrar
Pending the fulfillment of these bail conditions, Justice Nwite ordered that Okorie be remanded at the Suleja Correctional Centre, a facility located in Niger State, adjacent to the Federal Capital Territory.
The case has been adjourned until March 23, when trial proceedings are scheduled to commence. Legal observers note that the case highlights growing concerns about online conduct and the boundaries of free speech in Nigeria’s digital age, particularly among public figures with substantial social media followings.
Both actresses are prominent figures in Nollywood, Nigeria’s prolific film industry, and the case has generated significant public interest and discussion about cyberbullying and the responsibilities of celebrities on social media platforms.
The prosecution will need to present its evidence substantiating the cyberbullying allegations when the matter returns to court next month.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
Nollywood actress Angela Okorie has been granted N5 million bail by a Federal High Court in Abuja over allegations of cyberbullying fellow actress Mercy Johnson-Okojie. Despite prosecution opposition, Justice Emeka Nwite ruled there was insufficient evidence that she would flee if released.
She must provide a Grade Level 13 civil servant as surety and remain in Suleja Correctional Centre until bail conditions are met. The case, which underscores Nigeria’s growing focus on regulating online conduct among public figures, resumes trial on March 23.
