An Ebonyi Magistrate Court sitting in Abakaliki has remanded lawyer Igwe Nwalo Johnson, 43, to a correctional facility over allegations of cyber harassment and defamation against Chinedu Ogah, a member of the House of Representatives, representing Ikwo/Ezza South Federal Constituency.
The charges, filed under case number MAB/616C/2025 by the Ebonyi State Commissioner of Police, alleged that Johnson, together with an unnamed co-accused, conspired in October 2025 to commit criminal acts through cyberstalking.
The prosecution, led by Barrister Eze Chinagorom Ndubuisi of the Directorate of Legal Services, Abakaliki Police Headquarters, charged Johnson with conspiring to commit cyber bullying, an offense under Section 516A(a) of the Penal Code, Cap 33 Vol 1, Laws of Ebonyi State, 2009.
He further alleged that Johnson broadcast a live broadcast on Facebook through Amarachi Nweke’s account, which allegedly put Ogah in fear of death, violence and bodily harm, in contravention of Section 24(2)(a) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition and Prevention) Act 2015, as amended.
The prosecution also accused Johnson of disseminating content intended to damage Ogah’s reputation by falsely accusing him of a crime, in violation of Section 24(2)(c) of the same law.
During the proceedings, Johnson’s lawyer, Advocate Kelvin Nwafor, requested that the case be transferred to the Federal High Court, arguing that the trial court lacked jurisdiction. He also requested bail for his client.
Justice Sandra Oyibe emphasized the constitutional protections governing remand proceedings, noting that while bail may be considered, the ongoing remand must continue.
The court adjourned the case to December 22, 2025 for further hearing on the bail application.