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Published on 2024-02-13 20:05:22
Chika Nwoba, a former spokesperson of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ebonyi state, has been ordered to be remanded in a correctional centre. Nwoba was remanded in prison custody by an Abakaliki magistrate court as reported by Vanguard newspaper. Nwoba who appeared in court on Tuesday, February 13, is facing a three-count charge of conspiracy, false publication, and defamation.
The police arrested him on Sunday, February 11, following a petition by the commissioner for commerce and industry in Ebonyi state, Oguzor Offia-Nwali, Premium Times noted. Ebonyi is an All Progressives Congress (APC)-controlled state. The former PDP spokesperson is always having running battles with government officials over his critical comments on social media, especially on Facebook.
The prosecutor, Chinagorom Eze, told the court that Nwoba Chika and others are charged with conspiring to commit the felony of threatening to life, publishing false information, and are thereby committing an offense punishable under section 516 A (a) of the Criminal Code, Cap. 33 Vol. 1 Laws of Ebonyi state of Nigeria, 2009. Ruling on the matter, the magistrate, Lilian Ogodo, said the proper place for the argument is at the state high court because the court lacks jurisdiction to entertain the matter.
She, therefore, remanded the accused at the Abakaliki correctional facility and ordered that the case file be transmitted to the ministry of justice for further action. Ogodo adjourned the matter to Friday, March 1, 2024.
Nwoba is known for having been critical of the government and has previously faced legal battles as a result. It is likely that this is not the first time he is dealing with such accusations. His situation raises questions about freedom of speech and the rights of public officials to criticize the government and engage in political speech.
As a journalist with over 9 years of experience covering politics and governance, it is my responsibility to report on cases like Nwoba’s with accuracy and impartiality. It is important for readers to be informed about the situation and to consider the wider context in which it is occurring. The role of the media is to hold public officials accountable and facilitate discussions about the state of governance and political activities.
Cases like Nwoba’s challenge us to think about the balance between individual rights and freedoms and the need to maintain order and respect for public institutions. The legal battle he is facing and the charges against him should be scrutinized carefully to ensure that justice is served fairly and transparently.
As the circumstances develop, it will be necessary to follow this case closely to provide accurate and up-to-date information to the public. Regardless of the outcome, this story is a reminder of the importance of freedom of expression and the role of journalists in reporting on political and legal matters.
The details of Nwoba’s case will continue to be covered, and more information will be provided as it becomes available.
Source: Legit.ng
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