Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore has criticised the remand of Nollywood actress Doris Ogala at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre in Lagos, describing the development as an abuse of state power.
Sowore’s reaction followed Ogala’s arraignment before the Federal High Court in Lagos on Wednesday over allegations of cyberstalking, cyberbullying and attempted extortion involving popular cleric Pastor Chris Okafor.
The actress was charged by the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation with offences relating to the alleged publication of intimate photographs, dissemination of electronic messages said to be false, and threats against the cleric.
According to the prosecution, the alleged offences occurred between September 2024 and March 2026. Ogala, however, pleaded not guilty to all three counts.
The court ordered her remand pending the hearing and determination of her bail application, which was scheduled for October 30, 2026.
Reacting in a Facebook post, Sowore accused the police of using the Cybercrimes Act to serve the interests of influential individuals.
He argued that private disputes should not automatically become criminal cases and warned against any situation in which law enforcement agencies or the judiciary could be perceived as instruments for settling personal disagreements.
“The police must stop criminalizing private disputes, and the judiciary must never become an instrument of religious influence or personal vendettas. This abuse must end!” Sowore declared.
The activist also drew attention to Ogala’s political involvement, noting that she is a governorship candidate of the African Action Congress in Abia State.
He maintained that her constitutional rights must be respected throughout the legal process.
However, the allegations against Ogala remain before the court, and her plea of not guilty means the prosecution must establish its case through the judicial process.
The judge ordered an accelerated hearing of her bail application, with the next court session scheduled for Friday, October 30.
The case has reignited public debate over the enforcement of Nigeria’s Cybercrimes Act, the protection of individuals against online harassment and the need to safeguard the rights of defendants facing criminal charges.
As attention shifts to the bail hearing, the court is expected to consider whether Ogala should be released pending further proceedings.
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