The Inspector General of Police (IGP) has filed a three-count charge against former Senator Peter Nwaoboshi in the Federal High Court, Abuja, over allegations of defamation, cyberstalking, and threats to the life of Senator Ned Nwoko, who currently represents Delta North in the National Assembly.
The case, registered under Charge No. FHC/ABJ/02/21/2025 names the IGP as the complainant and Senator Nwaoboshi as the defendant.
The charges, which centre on statements Nwaoboshi allegedly made on July 22, 2023, claim that he accused Nwoko of bribing judges with $1.5 million and attempting to manipulate judicial appointments.
The IGP argues that these statements, which were disseminated across various social and mainstream media platforms, were false and intended to incite a breakdown of law and order, threatening Nwoko’s life and reputation.
Nwaoboshi is being accused of violating the Cybercrimes Act of 2015 by spreading harmful and false statements that reached a wide audience, including in major Nigerian cities.
The charges include making false statements at a press briefing following his release from prison, during an interview on an online TV programme and inciting further hostility and threats to Senator Nwoko’s safety.
The prosecution stated that Nwaoboshi knew, or had reason to believe that the statements made with intent to cause enmity, breakdown of law and order, and threats to Senator Nwoko’s life and reputation, were false, constituting an offence under Section 24(1)(b) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015, as amended.
Under the Cyber Crimes Act, the offences Nwaoboshi is accused of carry serious penalties, including possible imprisonment and fines.
If convicted, the former senator could face significant legal consequences for his alleged role in spreading false information and inciting public disorder.
As the case proceeds, the Federal High Court is expected to hear arguments from both the prosecution and defense.
Legal analysts suggest that the trial will be closely watched due to its implications for the regulation of online speech and political discourse in Nigeria.
The case is set to proceed in court, with key witnesses expected to testify in support of the IGP’s claims.
