A Lagos Federal High Court has directed that Nollywood actress Doris Ogala be remanded at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre after she pleaded not guilty to four charges brought against her.
The actress was arraigned on Wednesday over allegations involving the publication of personal materials without consent, dissemination of false information, cyberbullying and attempted extortion. Chris Okafor, founder of Mountain of Liberty and Miracle Ministry, filed the charges.
The case had been unable to proceed during two previous sittings due to Ogala’s absence. At Wednesday’s hearing, the prosecution requested that she remain in custody while it reviewed her bail application.
Prosecuting counsel Tolulope Mokolu told the court that he needed time to examine the application and prepare a response because he had only just received it.
Ogala’s defence counsel, N. C. Atulomah, urged the judge to grant bail instead. He said the actress was a governorship candidate of a political party in Abia State and assured the court that she would attend future proceedings.
Justice Akintayo Aluko ruled that the defence had not established sufficient grounds for her immediate release. He ordered an accelerated hearing of the bail application and adjourned the matter until October 30.
The hearing was also marked by a confrontation after Ogala insisted on speaking in court despite attempts to calm her.
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She reportedly shouted that government power was being used to oppress her, adding that her boyfriend was behind the alleged oppression. The judge eventually rose for the day when the situation became uncontrollable.
In a separate development, Ogala posted on Instagram accusing Jerry Eze, Suleman Johnson, Chris Okafor and Abia Governor Alex Otti of being behind her remand. She alleged that they feared she would expose information she knew about them.
The allegations have not been established as facts in the reported court proceedings.
The next hearing is expected to focus on whether Ogala will be granted bail while the case continues.
