A 43-year old blogger, Boniface Okonkwo, was Friday arraigned before an Abuja magistrate court, for defaming international businessman and Managing Director of Chrome Oil, Sir Emeka Offor.
Okoye was charged with defamation, publication of injurious falsehood and printing/engraving matters known to be defamatory against Offor.
Lawyers told Pointblanknews.com that the offence is punishable under Sections 391(1), 393 (1) and 394 of the penal code.
Days after Offor donated $1.25 million to Rotary Club International, to help fight polio worldwide, Okoye reportedly posted damaging articles on the internet about the businessman. Both men hail from Oraifite, Anambra State.
Using the email address bobbychuks37@yahoo.com, Okoye had reportedly posted articles in oraifiteindigenes@oceananedo.org, describing Offor as a “monkey”, “criminal” and fraudster in the mould of convicted former governor of Delta State, Chief James Ibori.
Okoye further reportedly described the donation as “stupidity difficult to comprehend, when according to him, there is nothing in Oraifite to show for Offor’s wealth.
The businessman, Pointblanknews.com gathered, petitioned the police after attempts to get the accused retract the damaging publications failed.
A relation of Okoye told Pointblanknews.com that the accused was fond of posting damaging reports on wealthy persons from their community to compel them to “settle.”
He claimed that the accused had boasted to several people that he would force “the money-miss-road” (Offor) to negotiate with him and part with a fraction of the $1.25 million.
Another family member told Pointblanknews.com how Okoye has been a source of worry to the family.
“He was in South Africa for several years before an inexplicable deportation, even though he claims he returned on his own.
“Sir E (Offor) has been a blessing to Oraifite and neighbouring towns. He single-handedly tarred our road in early 2000, not to mention the boreholes, scholarships, books and related philantrophic gestures he has extended to us. He is such a blessing,” he offered.
The family member disclosed that they were making overtures to the businessman to withdraw the matter, on the condition that “their son” would stop such activities.
He said they were aware of the possible damage such reports might have done to Offor’s reputation as an international businessman, and the number of business deals that might have been jeopardized.
The relation, however, argued: “(Aliko) Dangote is said to be the richest man in Africa. He gave a fortune to flood victims, even though there were none from his native Kano State. Should a man be crucified for his philantrophy?
“Polio is a global challenge. Giving money to overcome polio is a worthy cause, because polio affects most parts of the Third World, including Nigeria. The man deserves commendation, not condemnation,” he added.
Chief Magistrate Mohammed Galadima fixed Monday for ruling on the bail application by Okoye’s lawyer.