Four bloggers accused of cyberstalking GTCO and its Group Chief Executive Officer, Segun Agbaje, regain freedom after six months in custody.
On Thursday, GTCO withdrew the criminal charges filed against them by the Police Special Fraud Unit, Ikoyi, Lagos. This followed a settlement agreement. Justice Ayokunle Faji of the Federal High Court, Lagos, struck out the case.
The prosecution informed the court of the settlement. The bloggers Precious Eze, Olawale Rotimi, Rowland Olonishuwa, and Seun Odunlami were charged under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act. They were accused of spreading false information about GTCO and its CEO.
During Thursday’s hearing, the prosecuting counsel, Chief Ajibola Aribisala(SAN), informed Justice Faji of the settlement. He said the prosecution and GTCO reconsidered the case after the defendants expressed remorse and agreed to make amends.
Aribisala revealed that the settlement was facilitated by the Guild of Editors and GTCO. The bloggers agreed to the settlement terms, including restitution and public apologies.
“The bloggers pledged not to use their platforms for spreading false information” Aribisala added.
Defendants’ counsel, A.O. Afolabi, confirmed that the bloggers had signed the settlement agreement. Justice Faji approved the settlement and ruled that all parties must comply with its terms.
