A Chief Magistrate Court in Abuja has summoned five social media users for allegedly defaming gospel singer Mercy Chinwo and her husband, Blessed Uzochikwa. According to Channels Television, Chief Magistrate Emmanuel lyanna ordered the defendants – Okoronkwo Ejike, Kingsley Ibeh, DJ Spoiltkid, Terrence Ekot, and Samuel Agozie – to appear before the court on April 23, 2023.
The summons follows posts made by the defendants after Chinwo and her husband shared a picture of their son on Instagram. Allegations arose claiming resemblance between the child and gospel singer Nathaniel Bassey, insinuating he was the father.
In response, Chinwo and Uzochikwa filed a criminal complaint citing cyber intimidation, injurious falsehood, and cyberstalking. Their lawyers, led by Pelumi Olajengbesi, stated the defendants’ actions contravened Sections 391 of the Penal Code and Section 24 (1)(B) of the Cybercrimes Act 2015.
Nathaniel Bassey also petitioned the Inspector General of Police to investigate and prosecute the defendants for criminal defamation and cyberstalking.
