The Federal Government has initiated a significant legal action against a former Nigerian diplomat and others, bringing them before the court on allegations of cybercrime. This case underscores the government's increasing focus on regulating online conduct and protecting citizens from digital defamation.
Details of the Federal Government's Allegations
The Federal Government has filed a three-count criminal charge at the Federal High Court in Abuja against a former Nigerian Ambassador to Zambia, Amb. Nwannebuike Ominyi Eze, and other unnamed defendants. The charges, contained in an amended suit marked FHC/ABJ/CR/654/, revolve around the alleged publication of false and damaging statements on various online platforms.
According to the prosecution, the defendants used computer networks to disseminate information that severely harmed the reputation of Chief Dr Emmanuel Ogai. Chief Ogai is a prominent Nigerian industrialist and the Chief Executive Officer of the Frontfield Group of Companies. The core of the allegation states that on or about March 22, 2025, within the court's jurisdiction, the accused published statements accusing Chief Ogai of colluding with officials of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). The alleged collusion was to remove Amb. Ominyi's name from the NYSC national database after the completion of the 2005 service year.
The Specific Counts and Legal Framework
The government's case is built on three main counts, each citing specific sections of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2024 (as amended).
In Count One, the defendants are accused of conspiracy to damage Chief Ogai's reputation through malicious online publications. These publications allegedly labelled him a "serial blackmailer." This charge falls under Section 27(1)(a)(b) of the Cybercrime Act.
Count Two alleges that the defendants falsely claimed Chief Ogai was behind efforts to disqualify Ominyi as an ambassadorial nominee to replace him. Prosecutors argue these statements were intended to expose the industrialist to hatred, harassment, bullying, and reputational damage, contrary to Section 24(2)(a) of the Act.
The Third Count accuses the defendants of knowingly transmitting false statements through computer networks with the intent to cause harm. This offence is punishable under Section 24(2)(a)(b) of the Cybercrime Act. The Federal Government contends that the statements were false because Amb. Ominyi did not complete a full-time academic programme at Ebonyi State University and was therefore not qualified for the NYSC scheme.
Next Steps and Implications
The defendants are expected to take their plea when they are arraigned before the Federal High Court in Abuja. This case highlights the legal risks associated with publishing unverified claims on digital platforms like Top Trends Nigeria Online Newspaper, Facebook, and other social media.
The prosecution maintains that the publications were intended to cause criminal intimidation, enmity, anxiety, and hatred against Chief Ogai. This legal action serves as a stark reminder of the potent tools available to the government to combat cyber harassment and protect individuals from online character assassination, setting a potential precedent for future cases involving high-profile figures.
