The Federal High Court in Lagos has admitted actress Doris Ogala to bail in the sum of N30 million in connection with a legal dispute involving Chris Okafor, the leader of the Mountain of Liberation and Miracle Ministry.
Justice Akintayo Aluko delivered the ruling, ordering the defendant—who is also the African Action Congress governorship candidate for the upcoming Abia State election—to surrender her international passport to the court registrar. The proceedings form part of an ongoing cyberstalking case filed against her.
During the court session, Justice Aluko barred the defendant from disseminating electronic publications that could threaten, harass, or intimidate prosecution witnesses. Ms Ogala was not present in the courtroom, with her legal representative explaining that she was receiving medical care at a hospital.
What did the judge say regarding the bail conditions?
Justice Aluko noted that his decision balanced Ms Ogala's constitutional rights to personal liberty against the necessity of protecting witnesses and ensuring unhindered trial proceedings.
“I have taken all of the above into account in a bid to attach conditions that will guarantee or ensure the defendant’s attendance in court for her trial, and the need to protect the witnesses of the prosecution from harassment, threat or intimidation,” Justice Aluko stated. He further referenced her previous conduct inside the courtroom, which had led to disruptions and adjournments.
The judge acknowledged an apology offered by the defendant while reaffirming the constitutional presumption of innocence. He explicitly prohibited any online statements likely to expose prosecuting witnesses or court proceedings to public ridicule. In addition, Ms Ogala was mandated to submit a formal undertaking on oath promising orderly behavior throughout the trial.
How did the prosecution challenge the application?
Legal counsels representing the state had earlier opposed the bail request, accusing the actress of intentionally evading previous court dates while citing ill health. The prosecution presented photographic evidence purportedly showing her attending public political gatherings and protests during periods she claimed to be indisposed.
Defense attorneys countered that the alleged offenses are bailable under Nigerian law, arguing that their client posed no flight risk or threat to witnesses. They attributed her absence to genuine medical challenges, specifically gynaecological surgery resulting in bleeding, as noted by her lawyer Marshal Abubakar.
What are the specific requirements for her release?
Under the terms of the ruling, Ms Ogala must provide two sureties who will each execute bonds equivalent to the bail amount. At least one surety must own verified landed property within Lagos State, supported by documents certified by the Registrar of Deeds, or alternatively serve as a prominent national official of her political party.
Both sureties are required to reside within the jurisdiction of the court, present tax clearance certificates covering the past three years, submit recent passport photographs, and secure clearance from the court registrar. Once these conditions are fully satisfied, the defendant will be released from custody.