Court Grants Doris Ogala N30m Bail, Warns Against Witness Intimidation

On October 27, 2026, a Federal High Court in Lagos granted Nollywood actress Doris Ogala N30 million bail in her alleged cyberstalking case against Pastor Chris Okafor. Justice Akintayo Aluko imposed strict conditions to prevent her from harassing, intimidating, or interfering with prosecution witnesses. The court ordered her release on two sureties, each with a stake in landed property in Lagos State or meeting other eligibility criteria.

These sureties must also provide evidence of stable employment. The judge emphasized the constitutional presumption of innocence and the need to balance the defendant's right to liberty with the protection of the judicial process. While acknowledging Ogala's constitutional right to personal freedom, Justice Aluko stressed that bail was not an automatic entitlement but a judicial discretion exercised with caution.

The court highlighted the importance of ensuring the defendant's presence at trial while preventing any interference with the ongoing proceedings. Ogala had argued that bail would allow her to prepare her defence and participate in her political campaign ahead of the general elections. She cited health challenges as a reason for her previous absences from court.

However, the prosecution opposed her bail application, citing the nature of the allegations and concerns about potential interference with evidence and witnesses. The charges against Ogala include four counts of cybercrimes under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024, alleging the unlawful publication of intimate photographs, dissemination of false allegations, cyberbullying, and attempts to extort property from Pastor Okafor. The case was adjourned until March 25, 2027, for trial.