A Chief Magistrate Court sitting in Umuahia has remanded one Nnachi Divine Mark Idume at the Afara Correctional Centre over allegations of publishing false information on social media concerning former Abia State Governor, Senator Theodore Ahamefule (T.A.) Orji.
The remand order was made on Wednesday during proceedings in Charge No. U/306C/2026, filed by the Commissioner of Police under the provisions of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2025 (as amended).
According to the prosecution, the defendant allegedly published and circulated a viral social media report claiming that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had uncovered US$5 billion, purported pre-written future election results, ₦1 trillion worth of gold necklaces, and more than 200 exotic vehicles during an alleged raid on Senator Orji’s residence in Umuahia.
The prosecution told the court that the claims were false, unverified, and deliberately disseminated to mislead the public, attract online traffic, and tarnish the reputation of the former governor.
Following the defendant’s arraignment, the Chief Magistrate ordered that he be remanded at the Afara Correctional Centre pending further proceedings.
The matter was adjourned to August 27, 2027, for continuation of hearing.
The case is seen as part of efforts by law enforcement authorities to enforce the provisions of the Cybercrimes Act against the deliberate spread of false information through digital platforms. Authorities maintain that the prosecution is intended to address the growing challenge of misinformation, fake news, and malicious online publications capable of causing reputational damage, inciting public disorder, and undermining public confidence in public institutions.
