UK-Based Blogger Granted N50m Bail in Defamation Case

Justice Akintayo Aluko of the Federal High Court, Lagos, has granted bail to a United Kingdom-based Nigerian blogger, Maureen Badejo, in the sum of N50 million. The court also ordered her to produce two suitable sureties in like sum, one of whom must be a family member and the other a civil servant of grade level 14, each meeting specific property and tax requirements.

Badejo is standing trial for alleged conspiracy and defamation, charges brought by the Force Criminal Investigation Department (Force CID), Alagbon-Ikoyi, Lagos. The prosecution, led by Morufu Animashaun, told the court that the offences occurred around November 2021, involving defamatory statements and videos published via her YouTube channel and Facebook platforms.

The statements were directed against the General Overseer of Omega Fire Ministries International, Johnson Suleman, and one Dickson Osagie. The prosecution alleged that Badejo falsely portrayed Suleman as a cultist, rapist, assassin, and ritualist, placing both men in fear of death or bodily harm. The charges are based on Sections 376, 408(1), and 516 of the Criminal Code Act, 2004, as well as Sections 24(1)(b) and 24(2)(a) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015.

 Some of the offences, including alleged cyberbullying, carry penalties of up to ten years’ imprisonment and a minimum fine of N25 million. Badejo pleaded not guilty to the 11-count charge on March 6, and was remanded at the Nigeria Correctional Facility pending a ruling on her bail application.

In court, the lead defence Counsel, Dr Yinka Owoeye, argued that Badejo was entitled to bail based on the presumption of innocence and the bailable nature of the offences. The prosecution opposed the application, describing her as a flight risk and noting that she had been on Interpol’s watchlist for some years.

Justice Aluko granted the bail, citing Section 162 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015, and stating that it was in the interest of justice. The Judge directed that Badejo surrender her passports, refrain from publishing online content related to the case, and comply fully with the surety requirements before release.

 The court also ordered the return of her personal items previously seized, including bank and credit cards, jewellery, and designer bags. Further hearing in the case has been scheduled for June 1, 2026.