Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Pierre Antoine
A Federal High Court in Lagos has ordered the remand of a 19-year-old blogger, Nwanorue John Surpruchi, over allegations that he published false and defamatory content targeting Nigerian businessman and banker, Tony Elumelu, Chairman of Heirs Holdings and Group CEO of United Bank for Africa (UBA). The case was heard on Friday, May 29, 2026, in Lagos.
According to court filings presented by the prosecution, Surpruchi was arraigned on a four-count charge bordering on cyberstalking and criminal intimidation, with prosecutors alleging that the accused used online platforms to circulate posts intended to damage Elumelu’s reputation and provoke public hostility.
The prosecution told the court that the alleged offences violated provisions of Nigeria’s Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015, which criminalises the use of digital platforms to harass, defame or intimidate individuals. The court was informed that the posts in question were considered capable of causing reputational harm and public unrest if left unchallenged.
Surpruchi pleaded not guilty to the charges when they were read to him. His legal counsel reportedly applied for bail, arguing that the defendant is a first-time offender and should be granted liberty pending trial. However, the prosecution opposed the application, insisting that the seriousness of the allegations warranted continued detention.
Presiding judge, Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke, ordered that the defendant be remanded in custody pending the determination of the bail application and further proceedings. The court adjourned the matter to a later date in June 2026 for hearing of bail arguments and commencement of substantive trial proceedings.
Court documents indicate that the alleged online publications were traced to accounts linked to Surpruchi, prompting an investigation by relevant cybercrime enforcement authorities before his arrest and subsequent arraignment in Lagos. Investigators are also said to be examining digital evidence and communication records tied to the case.
Legal analysts note that cyberstalking and online defamation cases have increasingly become subject to criminal prosecution in Nigeria, particularly where public figures and high-profile business leaders are involved. The case has drawn attention due to the defendant’s age and the prominence of the complainant.
As of Saturday, May 30, 2026, the accused remains in custody pending further court proceedings. The trial is expected to continue in the coming weeks as both prosecution and defence prepare additional submissions.
📩 Stone Reporters News | 🌍 stonereportersnews.com
✉️ info@stonereportersnews.com | 📘 Facebook: Stone Reporters News | 🐦 X (Twitter): @StoneReportNew | 📸 Instagram: @stonereportersnews
Add comment
Comments