A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has granted Nollywood actress Angela Okorie bail in the sum of ₦5 million over charges bordering on alleged cyberstalking and criminal defamation. The decision was delivered by Justice Emeka Nwite after the actress was arraigned on an amended charge filed by the prosecution.
Angela Okorie was earlier remanded at the Suleja Correctional Centre in Niger State after pleading not guilty to the seven-count charge brought against her under the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act. The charges relate to allegations that she used social media platforms to publish defamatory and threatening statements against a fellow actress.
During the bail hearing, the prosecution opposed her release, arguing that she had previously violated administrative bail conditions and could evade trial if granted freedom. However, the defence countered that the actress was willing to face trial and posed no flight risk.
In his ruling, Justice Nwite held that there was no concrete evidence to suggest that Okorie would abscond if granted bail. He therefore granted her bail in the interest of justice, stressing that bail is a constitutional right except in exceptional circumstances.
The court ordered that the bail must be secured with one surety in like sum. The surety is required to be a Level 13 civil servant, submit an affidavit of means, provide evidence of employment and promotion, and have their residential address verified by the court.
The case has been adjourned to March 23, 2026, for the commencement of trial. The development has drawn public attention due to the high-profile nature of the individuals involved and has reignited conversations around the use of social media and the limits of online expression.
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