A Federal High Court sitting in Osogbo has directed a prosecution counsel, J.O Oyetunji, to ensure the appearance of a popular Islamic cleric, Jamiu Adegunwa, and his son, Isa Adegunwa, in court over alleged libelous statements.
The Presiding judge, Justice Adefunmilola Demi-Ajayi, gave the directive following the defendants’ failure to appear in court to answer the charge against them on Tuesday.
Justice Demi-Ajayi told the prosecution to deploy all lawful means to ensure the arrest of the defendants and their appearance before the court to face trial.
Earlier, Oyetunji informed the court that “the defendants were absent in Suit No. FHC/OS/86C/2025, bordering on alleged libel against one Mr Yusuf Adepoju.£
The prosecutor said “the defendants, who were not represented by any legal counsel, had been duly informed of their arraignment date but failed to honour the court’s summons.”
He added that the defendants would be declared wanted should they fail to appear for their trial.
Oyetunji said the alleged offence contravene sections 24(1)(a)(b) and 24(2)(a) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015.
According to the charge sheet, the defendants are facing a one count charge of making libelous statements that allegedly caused injury, insult and damage to the dignity and reputation of the complainant, Yusuf Adepoju.
The case was adjourned until April 21 for hearing.
