Cyberbullying: Doris Ogala’s arraignment stalled again over ill health

The planned arraignment of Nollywood actress Ms Doris Ogala before the Federal High Court in Lagos over allegations of cyberstalking, cyberbullying, and attempted extortion involving Pastor Chris Okafor has been stalled again due to her absence in court on health grounds.

This marks the second time Ms Ogala has failed to appear before Justice Akintayo Aluko over charges filed by the Directorate of Public Prosecutions of the Federation.

The matter first came up on 24 April 2026, when her former counsel, Temiloluwa Akindayini, informed the court that she had undergone surgery and was unable to attend proceedings, assuring the court she would be present at the next sitting.

However, when the case was called on Tuesday, Ms Ogala was again absent. Her counsel, Mr N.C. Atulomah, told the court that she was currently receiving treatment at a Federal Medical Centre.

Mr Atulomah urged the court to grant an adjournment, stating that two affidavits had been filed in support of the application and arguing that the prosecution would not suffer any prejudice if the case was delayed.

Prosecution raises questions over health claims

Prosecution counsel, Tolulope Mokolu, reluctantly agreed to the adjournment but raised concerns over inconsistencies in the defence’s medical report.

He noted that the document indicated that Ms Ogala had already been discharged and was being managed as an outpatient, despite claims of severe ill health.

Mr Mokolu also questioned her absence, pointing out that she had reportedly participated in recent political activities, including a party primary election, campaigns, and victory celebrations.

“I am reluctantly acceding to the counsel’s plea for adjournment in view of what I am seeing for the first time. However, if by the next adjourned date she is not in court, I will be asking for a bench warrant,” he said.

Following submissions from both sides, Justice Aluko adjourned the matter to 28 October 2026, for arraignment.

Allegations under cybercrime law

34-years-old Ms Ogala, is facing charges under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Amendment Act, 2024.

The prosecution alleges that she published personal and intimate materials involving Pastor Chris Okafor on social media without consent, alongside claims aimed at damaging his reputation.

She is also accused of disseminating false information, cyberbullying, harassment, and attempted extortion.

According to the charge, Ms Ogala allegedly shared nude and intimate content of the cleric between September 2024 and March 2026, as well as posts accusing him of rape, ritual practices, and involvement in a death.

The prosecution further alleged that she threatened to continue releasing sensitive materials unless she received financial compensation or a house from the cleric, conduct which they described as attempted extortion.