Doris Ogala has secured her release from the cyberstalking case hanging over her, but the terms come with a price tag and a leash.
Justice Akintayo Aluko of the Federal High Court in Lagos on Friday set bail at ₦30 million, requiring two sureties in the same amount. The Nollywood actress and politician must also hand her international passport to the court.
She is further barred from publishing anything online that could harass or intimidate prosecution witnesses — a condition the judge framed as necessary to protect those due to testify.
The Courtroom Incident That Coloured the Ruling
Before ruling, Justice Aluko made clear he had not forgotten 28 October 2026, when Ogala’s conduct disrupted proceedings and forced the adjournment of 10 cases.
He said the episode demonstrated she was capable of causing trouble beyond the courtroom, but balanced that against her apology and the constitutional presumption of innocence.
A Case Fought on Both Sides
The prosecution had argued against bail, accusing Ogala of deliberately skipping sittings on 23 April and 9 June 2026 by claiming ill health. Photographs were tendered showing her, according to the prosecution, at political rallies, campaigns and protests during the same window.
Her defence pushed back, insisting the offences were bailable and that Ogala — who is pursuing a governorship ambition — would neither flee nor interfere with witnesses.
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The judge relied on Section 162 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act and the Supreme Court’s decision in Suleiman’s case, stating that the primary purpose of bail is to secure the accused’s presence at trial. He granted it in the interest of justice, with stringent conditions attached.
The Conditions
One surety must either own a registered property in Lagos or be a prominent national officer of her party or a respected public figure. Both sureties must reside within the court’s jurisdiction, provide three years of tax clearance certificates and be verified by the registrar.
Ogala was also required to swear to good conduct in and around the court for the duration of the trial.
A Defendant Absent From Court
Ogala was not in court on Friday. Her lawyer, Marshal Abubakar, said she was receiving treatment at General Hospital, Ajegunle, after a gynaecological surgery that led to bleeding.