A Magistrate Court sitting in Wuse Zone 2, Abuja, has struck out a criminal suit filed by the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) on behalf of the Minister of Works, David Umahi, against businesswoman Tracyniter Ohiri over alleged cyberbullying and criminal defamation.
NOP NIGERIA reports that the case was struck out following an application by the police prosecutor, Wisdom Patrick, who informed the court of the decision to discontinue the matter.
“This application is filed and dated the 24th day of March, 2026… we wish to discontinue the case,” Patrick told the court, citing Section 108 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015.
In his ruling, Magistrate Ibraheem Ope granted the application, struck out the case, and discharged the defendant along with her sureties.
Tracyniter had earlier been granted bail on February 26, 2026, in the sum of ₦1 million with two sureties.
The case stemmed from allegations made by the businesswoman accusing Umahi of failing to pay for goods and services, as well as claims of unlawful detention and harassment after she allegedly rejected his advances.
At the resumed hearing, defence counsel A.K. Musa informed the court that the defendant was absent due to bereavement, a development communicated through a formal letter admitted in evidence.
Sowore Criticises Police Action
Speaking after the proceedings, activist Omoyele Sowore criticised the handling of the case, describing it as a misuse of legal process.
Sowore stated, “You know how the police always play their games… when they want to detain somebody indefinitely, they will go to the wrong forum.
“The case has been struck out… and all the sureties… have been discharged. I’m one of the sureties.”
Sowore further disclosed that the dispute between Umahi and the businesswoman had been resolved.
“Our position is that the Minister has settled the case… So, there is no basis for any other criminal charges,” he stated.
Similarly, defence counsel Musa questioned the continuation of related proceedings in another court.
“The law allows for alternative means of settlement… it is inappropriate to continue to pursue any Nigerian citizen,” he said.
He also alleged that the initial filing before the magistrate’s court was aimed at securing a remand order to detain the defendant.
Meanwhile, a report by Sahara Reporters indicates that a related case has been filed at the Federal High Court and may come up for hearing soon, despite claims that the matter has been amicably resolved.
