The Inspector General of Police (IGP) has filed a three-count charge against former Senator Peter Nwaoboshi at the Federal High Court in Abuja, accusing him of defamation, cyberstalking, and making threats against Senator Ned Nwoko, who currently represents Delta North in the National Assembly.
The case, listed under Charge No. FHC/ABJ/02/21/2025, positions the IGP as the complainant and Nwaoboshi as the defendant.
The charges relate to statements Nwaoboshi allegedly made on July 22, 2023, where he reportedly accused Senator Nwoko of attempting to influence judicial appointments and bribing judges with $1.5 million.
According to the IGP, these statements were widely circulated on various social and mainstream media platforms and were false, potentially inciting unrest and posing a threat to Nwoko’s safety and reputation.
Nwaoboshi is alleged to have violated the Cybercrimes Act, 2015, by disseminating misleading and damaging information that reached audiences across major Nigerian cities.
The accusations also involve statements made by Nwaoboshi during a press briefing after his release from prison, as well as comments during an interview on an online TV platform, which allegedly further endangered Senator Nwoko’s safety.
The prosecution claims that Nwaoboshi knowingly made these statements with the intent to provoke hostility and disrupt public order, thus violating Section 24(1)(b) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015.
Under the Cybercrimes Act, these charges carry severe penalties, including potential imprisonment and hefty fines if found guilty.
Legal experts note that the outcome of this trial could set a precedent for how defamatory statements made online are addressed under Nigerian law.
As the case advances, both prosecution and defense are expected to present their arguments, with key witnesses lined up to testify in support of the IGP’s claims.
The Federal High Court will soon commence hearings, marking a significant legal battle that may influence the future of digital conduct and political discourse in Nigeria.
