Minister Tunji-Ojo Initiates Legal Action Against Activist for Alleged Cyberstalking
Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has commenced legal proceedings against social crusader Emorioloye Owolemi over accusations of cyberstalking. The case is currently before the Federal High Court in Akure, Ondo State, where Owolemi faces a two-count charge designated as FHC/AK/3C/26.
The charges stem from Facebook posts that prosecutors allege were offensive and threatening towards the minister. According to court documents, the alleged offense occurred on December 23, 2025, in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.
Details of the Cyberstalking Charges
The prosecution claims the defendant knowingly transmitted electronic messages through Facebook that were grossly offensive, indecent, obscene, or menacing in character. Count one of the charge specifically states that Owolemi sent these messages against the Honourable Minister of Interior of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The prosecution maintains these actions contravene Section 24(1)(a) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, as amended in 2024. The second count accuses Owolemi of cyberstalking by means of threat and harassment, contrary to Section 24(1)(b) of the same legislation.
The court has scheduled March 26 for the hearing of this case, where the substantive allegations contained in the charge sheet will be addressed.
Legal Proceedings Amid Certificate Controversy
This legal development unfolds against the backdrop of ongoing public debate concerning the minister's credentials. On February 13, Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja granted Owolemi's request to investigate the academic credentials of the minister, specifically a Secondary School Certificate allegedly issued by the West African Examinations Council.
However, in a separate ruling, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik declined a similar application by the activist concerning a discharge certificate reportedly issued by the National Youth Service Corps. The court held that the applicant failed to demonstrate he was acting in the public interest, as required by law.
These certificate-related allegations concerning forgery and abuse of office have continued to generate public discussion and scrutiny of the minister's background and qualifications.
The cyberstalking case represents a significant legal confrontation between a high-ranking government official and a social activist, highlighting the increasing use of cybercrime legislation in Nigeria to address online conduct perceived as threatening or offensive to public figures.
