Bayelsa-based Journalist docked for alleged defamatory Facebook post

A Bayelsa-based nournalist, Mr Nengi Owei-Ilagha was on Monday docked in the Federal High Court Yenagoa for allegedly making defamatory posts against Mr Emmanuel Chiefson on Facebook.

Chiefson, is a member of the Police Community Relations Committee in Bayelsa.

Our correspondent reports that the Commissioner of Police, Mr Ben Okolo filed three counts charge maked charge No FHC/YNG/88C/2022 before Justice Emmanuel Gakko.

The defendant Owei-Ilagha, however pleaded not guilty to the charge.

His Counsel, Mr Godfrey Otiotio, moved an application for bail as the defendant earlier granted administrative bail by the Police was ready to present himself for trial.

Speaking on the application, Mr M.Y. Benabo , Prosecution Counsel noted that although he was not opposing the bail, the court should urge the defendant from making comments on social media that could prejudice the outcome of the case.

Also, defence counsel Otiotio plegged that he will note make comments in the media as it would amount to prejudice and would advise his client to do the same.

Ruling on the bail application, the trial judge admitted the media practitioner to bail of N1 million and one surety preferably the same surety on the administrative bail earlier granted by the Police.

Justice Gakko noted that the media has played and continue to play positive roles in the society but harped that it is unlawful for the media to preempt the outcome of cases before the judiciary.