Nollywood actress Doris Ogala was notably absent from the Federal High Court in Lagos on Thursday, April 23, 2026, where she was scheduled to be arraigned on a four-count charge of alleged cyberstalking against a popular pastor. Her defense lawyer informed the presiding judge that the actress had recently undergone a medical surgery and was currently recuperating in Abia State, which prevented her from attending the court session.
Prosecution Demands Bench Warrant
The prosecuting counsel, Tolulope Mokuola, strongly urged the court to issue a bench warrant for her arrest, arguing that the defendant had ignored official notices. However, Justice Akintayo Aluko rejected the request and instead imposed a strict condition on her legal team.
Defense Cites Health Reasons
Defense counsel Temiloluwa Akindayini opposed the bench warrant application by explaining his client's sudden health challenges. He informed the court that the actress had undergone a surgical procedure on April 21, 2026, and was recovering in Abia State, making it impossible for her to attend the hearing. He confirmed that an affidavit detailing these facts had already been filed before the court.
Prosecution Questions Medical Report
The prosecuting counsel faulted the defense for not giving prior notice regarding her health. Mokuola argued that the hearing notice provided ample time for the defense to inform the prosecution. He further questioned the medical report because it did not originate from a government hospital, stating that relying on a private hospital made it impossible to verify the document's authenticity.
Judge Sets Strict Conditions
Justice Aluko pointed out the procedural lapse regarding the unserved documents by the defense team and stated that the defense ought to have properly notified the prosecution. However, the court declined the bench warrant to give the absent defendant the benefit of the doubt. The judge directed the defendant to produce a verifiable medical report from a public hospital and serve it to the prosecution. The actress must be physically present in court at the next sitting.
The matter was adjourned to June 9, 2026, to allow the actress to recover fully and appear for her formal arraignment.
