Federal Government Arraigns Activist Owolemi Over Alleged Cyberstalking of Interior Minister
The Federal Government has instituted criminal proceedings against social crusader Emorioloye Owolemi before the Akure Division of the Federal High Court, alleging cyberstalking of the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji‑Ojo.
In a two‑count charge, marked FHC/AK/3C/26, the defendant is accused of publishing offensive and menacing statements against the Minister via Facebook. The prosecution contends that the conduct contravenes Sections 24(1)(a) and 24(1)(b) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2024, and is punishable under the same Act.
The first count alleges that on 23 December 2025, at Igbokoda, Ilaje LGA, Ondo State, Owolemi knowingly disseminated grossly offensive and indecent electronic communications against the Minister. The second count relates to threats and harassment through electronic messages.
The matter has been adjourned to 26 March for hearing. If convicted, the defendant faces penalties under the Cybercrimes Act, including imprisonment or fines.
The prosecution comes against the backdrop of ongoing controversy surrounding Tunji‑Ojo’s NYSC certificate and academic qualifications, with allegations of forgery and abuse of office. Notably, on 14 February 2026, Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court, Abuja, granted Owolemi’s ex parte application seeking judicial inquiry into the Minister’s secondary school certificate purportedly issued by WAEC.
Civil society organisations have also petitioned the National Assembly, DSS, Police, and NYSC, demanding investigation into the authenticity of Tunji‑Ojo’s credentials.
Meanwhile, the Concerned Citizens Leadership Integrity and Transparency Advocacy Initiative (CLITA) has criticised the Minister’s recourse to criminal prosecution, describing it as an attempt to silence dissent. The group argued that in a democratic society, constructive criticism should be addressed through transparency and accountability, not intimidation.
