A Federal High Court in Abuja has granted Nollywood actress Angela Okorie bail in the sum of ₦5 million with one surety of equal value, following her arraignment on charges of cyberbullying, cyberstalking, and criminal defamation. The ruling was delivered by Justice Emeka Nwite after hearing submissions from both the prosecution and the defence.
Okorie, who had been remanded at the Suleja Correctional Centre in Niger State, pleaded not guilty to the seven-count amended charge brought against her. The charges allege that she, along with a co-defendant currently at large, used social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok to post threatening and defamatory messages targeting fellow actress Mercy Johnson-Okojie. The posts reportedly described the actress in derogatory terms and were said to have caused reputational harm and public outrage.
The prosecution initially opposed bail, citing Okorie’s previous breach of an administrative bail and warning that she might evade trial or influence witnesses. They argued that the social media posts were capable of inciting hatred and public disorder.
In response, Okorie’s lawyer, Earnest Nwoye, emphasised her status as a well-known Nigerian with a fixed address, insisting that there was no evidence she would flee. He also noted that Okorie had travelled abroad for medical reasons, providing supporting documents, and denied any intention to abscond.
Justice Nwite granted bail, stressing that there was no solid proof that the actress would evade justice. The court specified that the surety must be a Level 13 civil servant, provide an affidavit of means, proof of employment, and evidence of residence. Both Okorie and the surety are required to submit passport photographs, and the surety’s address must be verified by the court registrar before bail is perfected.
The court adjourned the case to March 23, 2026, for the commencement of trial. Okorie will remain in custody until her bail conditions are verified.
The case has attracted nationwide attention due to the high-profile status of those involved and has reignited discussions about the responsibilities of social media users, the consequences of online harassment, and enforcement of Nigeria’s Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act.
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