IGP Seeks Bail Revocation for Oboyinlo Enenche Peter in Criminal Defamation Case

Alleged Bail Violation Sparks Legal Action

The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has approached the Magistrate’s Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in Abuja, seeking the revocation of bail granted to Oboyinlo Enenche Peter. Peter, a relative of Pastor Paul Enenche, is currently facing trial for alleged criminal defamation alongside Abraham Daniel and other defendants who are reportedly at large.

The case revolves around accusations of defaming the character of two prominent religious figures—Pastor Paul Enenche, the General Overseer of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, and Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God. The trial is taking place at the Magistrate Court in Wuse Zone 6, Abuja.

In a Motion on Notice filed on March 17, the IGP, through his legal representative Francis Gabriel Esq. of the Legal Prosecution Section of the Nigeria Police Force, alleged that Peter had violated the conditions of his bail. As a result, Egbetokun is seeking a court order to remand Peter in the custody of the Nigeria Correctional Service until the trial is concluded.

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Legal Basis for the Bail Revocation Request

The application for bail revocation is grounded in various legal provisions, including:

• Section 35(f) and 44(2) K. 251(d) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended)
• Section 4 of the Police Act
• Relevant sections of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015

According to the motion, the police chief contends that Peter failed to comply with his bail terms, necessitating his re-arrest and detention.

Key Allegations Against Peter

Among the six grounds cited for the bail revocation, the police allege that:

1. Continued Defamation: Despite being granted bail, Peter allegedly continued to make defamatory posts on social media platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp, targeting Pastor Paul Enenche.
2. Contempt of Court: The defendant reportedly made public statements about the ongoing trial without the court’s consent, allegedly attempting to undermine the judicial process.
3. Legal Precedent: The Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015 allows for bail revocation if a defendant is found committing another offense while on bail.
4. Threat to Justice: The police argue that unless the court intervenes, Peter and his associates may succeed in obstructing justice.

Petition Against the Magistrate

This latest legal move follows a petition filed by the defendants, including Peter and Abraham Daniel, against the presiding Magistrate, Chief Emmanuel A. Iyanna. In their petition, they accused the magistrate of misconduct and disregarding legal procedures. However, the police assert that Peter’s alleged actions warrant immediate legal intervention.

Reliefs Sought by the IGP

The IGP’s application requests the court to grant the following orders:

1. Revocation of Bail: Canceling Peter’s bail for violating its conditions.
2. Remand Order: Detaining Peter in the custody of the Nigeria Correctional Service until the trial is concluded.
3. Further Judicial Orders: Any additional directives the court deems necessary in the circumstances.

Implications of the Case

This case has drawn significant attention due to the involvement of prominent religious leaders. The allegations of defamation and subsequent legal battles highlight the growing influence of social media in legal and reputational disputes. If the court grants the IGP’s request, it could set a legal precedent for handling bail violations in cases involving defamation and public figures.

As the case unfolds, all eyes remain on the court’s decision regarding Peter’s bail status and the broader implications for Nigeria’s judicial system.