Breaking: FG Charges Former Envoy And Associates Over Alleged Cyber Defamation

The Federal Government has filed a three-count criminal charge against former Nigerian Ambassador to Zambia, Nwannebuike Ominyi Eze, and others at the Federal High Court in Abuja over alleged cybercrime-related offences.

The amended charges, filed under suit number FHC/ABJ/CR/654/, relate to purportedly false and damaging publications circulated via Top Trends Nigeria Online Newspaper, Facebook, and other social media platforms.

According to the prosecution, the statements allegedly harmed the reputation of Emmanuel Ogai, a Nigerian industrialist and CEO of Frontfield Group of Companies.

Court documents indicate that on or about March 22, 2025, within the court’s jurisdiction, the defendants allegedly used computer networks to publish statements claiming Ogai colluded with NYSC officials to remove Ominyi’s name from the national database following the completion of the 2005 service year.

The prosecution further alleged that the statements were false and circulated with knowledge that Ominyi had allegedly not completed a full-time academic programme at Ebonyi State University, rendering him ineligible for the NYSC scheme. The publications were reportedly intended to cause harm, intimidation, anxiety, enmity, and hatred against Ogai.

In count one, the defendants are accused of conspiring to damage Ogai’s reputation by publishing malicious online content, including claims labeling him a “serial blackmailer.” This is said to violate Section 27(1)(a)(b) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2024 (as amended).

Count two alleges that the defendants falsely claimed that Ogai orchestrated efforts to disqualify Ominyi as an ambassadorial nominee to replace him. The prosecution argued that these statements were intended to expose Ogai to hatred, harassment, bullying, and reputational harm, contrary to Section 24(2)(a) of the Act.

In count three, the defendants are accused of knowingly transmitting false statements through computer networks with intent to cause harm, an offence also punishable under Section 24(2)(a)(b) of the Cybercrime Act.

The defendants are expected to enter their plea when the matter comes up for arraignment before the Federal High Court in Abuja.