Absence: Anambra Court Adjourns Arraignment of Accused to March 13

By Karen James

An Anambra State Magistrate Court sitting in Ogidi, Idemili North Local Government Area of the state, has adjourned the arraignment of one Samuel Aroh Chidiebere, who is charged with cyberbullying and defamation, until March 13, 2026.
The presiding Magistrate, Uzoma Udeze, adjourned the arraignment following the absence of the accused in court.
In a charge sheet with the number MID/11/4/2026, obtained by our reporter, the accused was alleged to have, on the 10th day of February 2026 at Amafor Village, Nkpor, within the Idemili North Magisterial District, published defamatory statements with the intent to defame the character of Chief Emmanuel Idemili.
According to the charge, the defendant allegedly made spoken statements in which he referred to Chief Emmanuel Idemili as a sponsor of a dangerous cult group and a land grabber.
The statements were reportedly made in the presence and hearing of the said Chief Emmanuel Idemili and other persons present at the scene.
The charge further stated that the statements were made with the intent to defame, ridicule, and expose the complainant to contempt and hatred, as well as to damage his reputation, character, and business.
The alleged act is said to constitute an offence punishable under Section 325 of the Criminal Code, Cap 36, Vol. II, Revised Laws of Anambra State of Nigeria, 1991.
In his ruling, the court noted that due to the absence of the accused, the matter could not proceed with the arraignment. Consequently, the case was adjourned to March 13, 2026, to allow for further proceedings.