IGP Drags Ex-Senator Nwaoboshi to Court Over Defamation, Cyberstalking, Death Threats Against Senator Ned Nwoko
ABUJA/Nigeria: The Inspector General of Police (IGP) has filed a three-count charge against former Senator Peter Nwaoboshi at the Federal High Court, Abuja, over allegations of defamation, cyberstalking, and threats to the life of Senator Ned Nwoko, who represents Delta North in the National Assembly.
The case, registered under Charge No. FHC/ABJ/02/21/2025, lists the IGP as the complainant and Nwaoboshi as the defendant. The charges stem from statements the former senator allegedly made on July 22, 2023, in which he accused Nwoko of bribing judges with $1.5 million and attempting to manipulate judicial appointments.
According to the IGP, these statements, widely disseminated across various media platforms, were false and intended to incite public disorder, posing a direct threat to Nwoko’s life and reputation. Nwaoboshi is also accused of violating the Cybercrimes Act, 2015, by spreading damaging falsehoods that reached audiences across major Nigerian cities.
The prosecution alleges that the ex-lawmaker made the statements during a press briefing following his release from prison and in an online television interview, further fueling hostility and security concerns for Nwoko. The charge states that Nwaoboshi knew or ought to have known that his claims were false, contravening Section 24(1)(b) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015, as amended.
Under the law, the offenses carry severe penalties, including imprisonment and hefty fines. If convicted, Nwaoboshi could face significant legal consequences. The Federal High Court is set to hear arguments from both sides, with key witnesses expected to testify. Legal analysts believe the trial will be closely watched for its implications on the regulation of online speech and political discourse in Nigeria.
