By Peace Erewunmi

An Awka Chief Magistrate’s Court in Anambra State has denied bail to online publisher Ejike Ofoegbu, publisher of Igbo Times Magazine and INews, over alleged defamatory publications targeting Governor Chukwuma Soludo and members of his family.

Ofoegbu was arraigned on allegations of publishing fabricated and defamatory content about the governor and his family. According to the prosecution, the reports contained false claims, including allegations that Governor Soludo had disowned his son, Ozonna, and other stories the prosecution described as “satanic works of fiction” intended to attract online traffic and generate financial gain.

The charges were filed under provisions of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, including offences relating to cyberstalking, identity theft and criminal defamation.

During the proceedings, the presiding magistrate, C.O. Ezekwere, ruled that the Magistrate Court lacked jurisdiction to hear the substantive case. The court ordered that the case file be forwarded to the Anambra State Attorney General and Ministry of Justice for further legal action and advised the defendant to seek bail before the High Court.

Although Ofoegbu had previously issued a public apology and retracted the disputed publications, the prosecution maintained that the legal process should continue. The matter was subsequently adjourned to July 27, 2026, for a status report and further directives.