Chioma Okoli secures bail from Justice Peter Lifu at the Federal High Court, Abuja. Delve into the conditions and legal intricacies surrounding her alleged online commentary on Erisco Foods Limited’s tomato paste. Stay informed on this evolving cybercrime case.
Mrs. Chioma Okoli has been granted bail by Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court in Abuja, amidst allegations concerning her online commentary regarding Erisco Foods Limited’s tomato paste. The bail, set at N5 million with two sureties in similar amounts, comes with specific conditions.
In his ruling, Justice Lifu stipulated that one of the sureties must either be Okoli’s spouse or a blood relative, possessing a reliable source of income and residing within the court's jurisdiction. Additionally, the sureties are required to provide a passport photograph each, while Okoli herself must surrender any international passport she holds, if applicable.
The judge concurred with Okoli’s legal representation, acknowledging the bailable nature of the offense as argued. He emphasized the presumption of innocence until proven guilty, as enshrined in Section 36(5) of the Constitution, labeling the denial of bail as a misapplication of discretion and a potential pre-trial judgment.
Justice Lifu also considered Okoli’s health condition in his decision-making process. The case has been adjourned until June 13 for further proceedings.
Mrs. Okoli faces charges related to her online statements about Erisco Foods Limited’s tomato paste, allegedly violating the Cybercrime Act of 2015. The Inspector-General of Police brought forth a two-count charge of cybercrime against her, to which she pleaded not guilty.
