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An Anambra State High Court in Nnewi has sentenced South African-based activist Boniface Okonkwo to 18 months in prison for defaming prominent businessman Sir Emeka Offor. Presided over by Justice Vincent Agbata, the court found Okonkwo guilty of making defamatory statements about Offor’s meter manufacturing company, calling it an “empty warehouse” in a post on the “Oraifite WhatsApp platform.”
In his ruling, Justice Agbata stated that the evidence against Okonkwo, including a phone call allegedly made in the courtroom and identified through the Truecaller app, was sufficient for conviction. The judge, however, offered Okonkwo the option to pay a fine of N500,000 instead of serving the prison sentence.
The case began in January 2024, following Offor’s complaint against Okonkwo. The evidence presented by the prosecution linked Okonkwo to the defamatory post, though the defense initially argued justification and fair comment. Justice Agbata noted that Okonkwo’s relationship to Offor through their shared community group made the impact of the post more severe, especially given that it followed a high-profile event in Oraifite attended by dignitaries, including Vice President Kashim Shettima.
Reacting to the judgment, defense counsel S.I. Okonkwo expressed dissatisfaction, arguing that the judge did not consider certain nuances of the case. He pointed out that the defamed entities included corporate bodies and not Offor personally, which he believes was overlooked.
“We are disappointed with the outcome, though relieved that an option of a fine was provided,” he said. The defense team now plans to review the judgment for possible next steps.