Erisco Cybercrime Case: Chioma Withdraws Jurisdiction Challenge

• A Federal High Court in Abuja dismissed Mrs. Chioma Egodi Okoli’s objection to the court’s jurisdiction over her cybercrime trial
• The Inspector General of Police charged Okoli with criminal defamation for allegedly spreading false information to incite people against Erisco Foods

A Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed Mrs. Chioma Egodi Okoli’s preliminary objection. She was challenging the court’s jurisdiction to hear her trial on alleged cybercrime charges.

Justice Peter Lifu struck out the objection on Friday after Okoli, through her counsel, expressed her intent to withdraw the motion.

Lilian Ufuasia’s lawyer informed the court that the defense was no longer interested in seeking the case transfer to Lagos, where Okoli resides. The prosecution, represented by Sidi Anthony, did not oppose the withdrawal.

The Inspector General of Police had filed a two-count charge against Okoli, accusing her of criminal defamation. Happiness Obas and Don Kashking, who are reportedly at large, were also charged.

The defendants were charged with conspiring to spread false information on Facebook through the handle “Chioma Egodi Jnr” to incite people against Erisco Foods Limited.

The charges allege that the false information was intended to cause annoyance, insult, injury, or harm to Erisco Foods, its management, and the family.

These alleged actions violate Section 27(1)(b) and 24(1)(b) of the Cybercrime Prohibition Act. Okoli has pleaded not guilty, and the case has been adjourned to December 4 for trial.