Erisco Review: High Court Grants Chioma Okoli N5 Million Bail

The Federal High Court in Abuja has granted bail to Chioma Okoli, a prominent tomato paste reviewer, in the sum of N5 million. The decision, delivered by Hon. Justice Peter Lifu, mandates two sureties, one of whom must be her spouse or a blood relative residing in Abuja with a verifiable means of livelihood.

Okoli, who faced charges of conspiracy and cyberstalking, was remanded at Suleja Correctional Center after her arraignment on May 28, 2024. She pleaded not guilty to both charges.

Justice Lifu’s ruling came after a bail application filed by Okoli’s lawyer, Inibehe Effiong. The judge emphasized that denying bail would contravene the presumption of innocence under Section 365 (5) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, describing such denial as judicial rascality and pre-trial judgment. As part of her bail conditions, Okoli must deposit her passport with the court if she possesses one.

The trial is set to resume on June 13, 2024.

The case against Okoli stems from a negative review she posted about Nagiko Tomato Mix, produced by Erisco Foods Limited, alleging that it contained excessive sugar. This review, according to Erisco Foods’ CEO Eric Omeofia, negatively impacted the company’s business.

Okoli was arrested in September 2023, with her lawyer claiming that her fundamental rights were violated during the arrest process. The charges against her, detailed in court documents, accuse her of using her Facebook account to spread false information intended to harm Erisco Foods’ reputation and instigate public animosity against the company.

The incarceration of Okoli has sparked significant public outcry. On the same day as her bail hearing, 300 women’s groups called for a nationwide boycott of Erisco Foods products, protesting what they perceive as unjust treatment of Okoli.