IGP: Anambra Court To Decide Jurisdiction In Defamation Case Against Umuona Community Leaders

By Chuks Eke

The Federal High Court in Awka has adjourned the defamation case against eight prominent members of the Umuona community in Aguata LGA to February 11, 2025.

The adjournment follows a preliminary objection raised by the defense challenging the court’s jurisdiction.

The case, Charge No. FHC/AWK/406C/2024, involves charges of defamation of character brought by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) against Kenneth Okoli (67), Ernest Onyejekwe (69), Dr. Anthony Okoli (70), Godfrey Ezeabalim (75), Chukwudi Obiora (40), Obiakor Gilbert (67), Bartholomew Udemba (60), and HRH, Igwe Iyke S. C. Ezeofor (61), and others at large.

The defendants are accused of violating the Cybercrime Act 2021 and the Criminal Code Act through conspiracy, cyberstalking, and providing false information to a public servant.

Defense counsel, Fredrick Okpe, argued that the Federal High Court lacks jurisdiction as a similar case based on the same facts is already pending before the Anambra State High Court in Onitsha.

The objection hinges on a letter written by the defendants to the Anambra State Commissioner for Chieftaincy and Local Government Affairs on May 28, 2022.

This letter accused Igwe Humphrey Ejesieme, the deposed traditional ruler of Umuona, of disrupting a UPU (Umuona Progressive Union) meeting with armed thugs on December 28, 2022.

The prosecution alleges this false information led to the state government withdrawing Igwe Ejesieme’s certificate of recognition.

The prosecution, led by G. T. Nev Esq., with Ifeanyi Egbuna Esq. watching the brief, countered the objection and urged the court to proceed.

The court subsequently adjourned to February 11, 2025, to hear and determine the preliminary objection.

The case stems from a complaint lodged with the IGP by Igwe Ejesieme, who alleges that the defendants’ false accusations resulted in his deposition.

The five-count charge against the defendants carries significant implications for the Umuona community and the ongoing dispute over traditional rulership.

The court’s decision on the preliminary objection will determine the venue and future course of the case.