Court Grants Nollywood Actress Angela Okorie ₦5 Million Bail in Cyberbullying Case
A Nigerian court has granted Nollywood actress Angela Okorie bail in the sum of ₦5 million following her arraignment on allegations bordering on cyberbullying. The actress appeared before the court after being accused of making statements online that allegedly violated Nigeria’s cybercrime laws.
According to court proceedings, Angela Okorie was brought before the judge after a petition was filed against her, claiming that certain social media posts and remarks attributed to her were defamatory and constituted cyberbullying. The prosecution alleged that the posts were capable of causing harm to the reputation and emotional wellbeing of the complainant.
The court heard that the alleged offence falls under provisions of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, which criminalises online harassment, bullying, and the use of electronic communication to intimidate or damage another person’s reputation. The prosecution urged the court to remand the actress pending the determination of the case, citing the seriousness of the allegations.
However, counsel to Angela Okorie pleaded with the court to grant her bail, arguing that the actress is a public figure with a known address and would not evade trial. The defence also told the court that Okorie was ready to cooperate fully with investigators and comply with all conditions imposed by the court.
After listening to arguments from both sides, the judge granted Angela Okorie bail in the sum of ₦5 million. The court also attached additional conditions to the bail, including the provision of sureties who must meet specific requirements set by the court. The judge warned that failure to meet the bail conditions would result in the actress being remanded in custody.
The case was subsequently adjourned to a later date for further hearing. The court emphasized the need for all parties to refrain from making public comments or social media posts that could prejudice the proceedings while the case is ongoing.
Angela Okorie, a well-known Nollywood actress and singer, has been involved in several public controversies in recent years, many of which have played out on social media. The current case has once again sparked conversations online about cyberbullying, freedom of expression, and the responsibilities of public figures in the digital space.
Legal experts note that the case highlights the growing attention Nigerian courts are paying to cybercrime-related offences, especially those involving social media platforms. They say the outcome of the case could further shape public understanding of what constitutes cyberbullying under Nigerian law.
As the matter continues, the actress is expected to remain free on bail while attending court sessions as scheduled, pending the final determination of the case.
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