The Federal High Court in Abuja has granted Nollywood actress Angela Okorie bail of N5 million with one surety of the same amount, in a case where she is accused of cyberbullying fellow actress Mercy Johnson-Okojie.
Justice Emeka Nwite, in ruling on Okorie’s bail application, noted that while the prosecution opposed the request, there was no concrete evidence that she would evade trial if granted bail.
“Therefore, I am minded to grant the bail in the interest of justice,” Justice Nwite said, emphasising that the court’s discretion must be exercised judiciously.
The court stipulated that the surety must be a level 13 civil servant, provide an affidavit of means, and present their appointment and last promotion letters. Both Okorie and the surety are required to submit two passport photographs, and the surety’s residence will be verified by the court registrar. Okorie will remain in Suleja Correctional Centre until the bail conditions are confirmed. The case was adjourned until March 23, 2026, for trial.
Okorie was re-arraigned on a seven-count charge of cyberstalking and criminal defamation, alleged to have occurred between 2024 and 2025 under the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act, 2015. She pleaded not guilty to all counts.
Her lawyer, Earnest Nwoye, argued that Okorie is a known Nigerian with no intention to abscond and urged the court to grant bail pending trial. He also countered claims by the prosecution that she had previously absconded, citing medical evidence and communication records showing she had traveled for a medical evaluation.
The police, represented by Victor Okoye, opposed the bail, arguing that Okorie previously failed to comply with an administrative bail and that the offences carry penalties ranging from three to ten years. They also submitted a 29-paragraph counter-affidavit and four exhibits in support of their objection.
The case stems from allegations that Okorie, together with co-defendant Ifeoma Mbonu (currently at large), posted defamatory messages on Instagram and TikTok targeting Mercy Johnson-Okojie. The posts reportedly described Johnson-Okojie as a “blood-sucking demon,” inciting public hatred, harassment, and emotional trauma.
Justice Nwite previously remanded Okorie in Suleja Correctional Centre following an earlier arraignment on a three-count charge, before formally granting her bail on Friday.
