Court Remands Gov Ododo’s Critic Okai in Prison Over Alleged Cyberstalking, Defamation
A Magistrate Court in Lokoja, Kogi State, has granted the Prosecution’s request to remand opposition politician and social critic Austin Usman Okai in prison over charges of cyberstalking and criminal defamation. The decision allows the Department of State Services (DSS) to complete its investigation into the allegations.
Magistrate Mobah Abdullahi, of Chief Magistrate Court 1 sitting at Lugard Court in Lokoja, ruled in favor of the DSS’s application. The decision ensures Okai’s remand at the Federal Correctional Center in Kabba while adhering to the law, as the accused cannot be held beyond 48 hours without court approval under the Criminal Justice System of Nigeria.
The case was adjourned to March 13, 2025, for further proceedings.
Okai, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), is facing charges for allegedly accusing Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of embezzling billions of naira meant for local government councils and various state agencies.
Reports indicate that Okai was arrested by DSS operatives at his Abuja home, where he was forcibly dragged out in front of his family and transported to Lokoja.
