Stop Criminalising Private Disputes — Sowore Reacts As Court Remands Actress Doris Ogala

Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore has criticised the Nigerian authorities following the remand of Nollywood actress Doris Ogala at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre in Lagos, accusing the police of allegedly using the Cybercrimes Act to intimidate individuals and protect influential personalities.

Ogala was arraigned on Wednesday by the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation before Justice Akintayo Aluko of the Federal High Court in Lagos over three charges bordering on alleged cyberbullying, cyberstalking and attempted extortion involving Pastor Chris Okafor.

According to Bush Radio Academy, the charges reportedly include allegations relating to the publication of intimate photographs, the circulation of allegedly false electronic messages and threats against the cleric. The court ordered that Ogala be remanded pending the hearing and determination of her bail application.

Reacting to the development in a Facebook post, Sowore accused the Nigeria Police Force of using the Cybercrimes Act in ways he believes serve the interests of powerful individuals. He questioned the decision to pursue criminal charges arising from the allegations involving Ogala and the pastor, arguing that private disputes should not automatically become criminal cases.

The activist also expressed concern about the handling of the matter before the Federal High Court in Lagos, raising questions about the perceived impartiality of the judicial process. His comments reflected his broader concerns about the possible use of law enforcement agencies and the courts to settle personal disagreements or shield influential religious figures from scrutiny.

Sowore further maintained that Ogala, who is the African Action Congress (AAC) governorship candidate in Abia State, should be afforded her constitutional rights, including due process and a fair hearing.

He called on the police to avoid what he described as the criminalisation of private disputes and urged the judiciary to remain independent of religious influence and personal interests.

The case has drawn attention to the application of cybercrime laws in disputes involving public figures, as well as questions about freedom of expression, privacy and the protection of individual rights. The allegations against Ogala remain matters for the court to determine, and her remand pending a bail decision does not amount to a finding of guilt.