Lagos – The arraignment of Nigerian actress Doris Ogala has been postponed after she failed to appear at the Federal High Court in Ikoyi on Thursday. Ogala faces four charges: unauthorized publication of personal material belonging to Pastor Chris Okafor, founder of Grace Nation Bible Ministry; cyber‑bullying and harassment; attempted extortion; and dissemination of false information intended to incriminate the cleric.
During the hearing, prosecuting counsel Tolulope Mokuola sought a bench warrant to compel Ogala’s attendance, noting that she had been duly served with a notice of hearing but did not appear. Defence lawyer Temiloluwa Akindayini argued that Ogala underwent surgery on Tuesday and was recuperating in Abia State. Akindayini submitted an affidavit detailing Ogala’s medical condition, which had been filed with the court on 22 April 2026.
The prosecutor objected, contending that the defence had not served the affidavit on the prosecution and had failed to notify the court in advance of the surgery. Justice Akintayo Aluko, however, declined the request for a bench warrant. He ordered that Ogala must be present for her arraignment on 9 June 2026, the date to which the matter has been adjourned. The judge further directed that the actress provide a verifiable medical report from a government hospital and ensure that the document is served on the prosecution before the next hearing.
The case stems from allegations made by Ogala that Pastor Okafor was involved in criminal activities and that she possessed evidence that could damage his reputation. She reportedly threatened to release the material if her demands were not met, prompting the charges of extortion and the alleged dissemination of false information.
The postponement underscores the court’s insistence on procedural compliance while balancing the defendant’s claimed medical incapacity. The upcoming arraignment will determine whether Ogala can secure bail and how the prosecution will proceed with the substantive charges. Media Talk Africa will continue to monitor developments in this high‑profile case.
