GTCO Saga: Four journalists arraigned for alleged cyberstalking, bail set for Oct 14

Four journalists were on Thursday arraigned before a Federal High Court in Lagos for alleged cyberstalking and spreading false information about Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO) Plc and its Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Segun Agbaje.

The four journalists are Precious Eze, Olawale Rotimi, Rowland Olonishuwa, and Seun Odunlami, were arraigned on a two-count charge by the Police, specifically the Special Fraud Unit, Milverton of the Lagos State Police Command.

The presiding judge, Justice Ayokunle Faji fixed October 14, to decide on their bail application.

According to the police, the defendants conspired to commit cyberstalking and sent false messages on social media, including claims of a “N1 trillion scam” and “nepotism” involving Agbaje.

READ ALSO: GTCO makes N15.6bn from account maintenance charges

These actions allegedly insulted Agbaje and caused unnecessary anxiety, injury, or hatred, violating sections 24 and 27 of the Cybercrimes Act of 2015.

The defence counsel, O A Afolabi, argued for bail, stating that the offences were bailable. However, police prosecutor Emmanuel Jackson opposed the application, citing the defendants as a “flight risk” and potential evidence tampering.

Justice Faji ruled that he would deliver his ruling on October 14, determining whether the journalists will be granted bail or remain in custody.

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