Just In: Nnewi Magistrate Court Remands James Okoye (Akachaam)
The Chief Magistrate Court in Nnewi has granted a police application for the remand of James Okoye Ebube, popularly known as Jaluo or Akachaam, in connection with allegations of conspiracy and cybercrime.
The matter, filed as Suit No. Nmd/MSC.279/2026, Motion No. MN/939/2026, was brought ex parte by the Commissioner of Police against Okoye under Sections 130(1)(3)(a)(b) and 132(2) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law of Anambra State, 2022.
Police counsel A. N. Obo, Esq., of the Nigeria Police Force Legal Department, Zone 13, Ukpo, moved the application seeking Okoye’s remand at the Nnewi Correctional Centre for 30 days to enable investigators to conclude their inquiries and transmit the case file to the Attorney-General of Anambra State for legal advice.
Police Affidavit Alleges Defamatory WhatsApp Messages
In a supporting affidavit deposed on September 8, 2026, at the Chief Magistrate Court Registry, Nnewi, Investigating Police Officer ASP Tijani Attai of Zone 13 Headquarters, Ukpo, stated that a formal complaint of conspiracy and cybercrime was lodged on August 19, 2026, by Mr. Okoli Innocent against Okoye and other individuals currently at large.
According to the affidavit, the investigation has established a prima facie case against the suspect. ASP Attai alleged that Okoye “knowingly and intentionally published and sent false messages” through recorded voice notes to multiple WhatsApp groups, including a Nnewi-based platform, in which he accused Mr. Okoli Innocent of being a kidnapper responsible for abduction incidents in Nnewi and surrounding areas.
The police described the publications as constituting cyber-stalking and cyber-bullying, and further stated that the messages had placed the complainant in fear of death and personal danger.
The prosecution also informed the court that the Magistrate Court lacks jurisdiction to try the alleged cybercrime offence, necessitating Okoye’s remand pending the conclusion of investigation and the filing of appropriate charges before a competent court. A photocopy of the police case file and Form 12 were submitted alongside the motion.
Certified true copies of the motion, affidavit, and written address bear the September 8, 2026, stamp of the Chief Magistrate Court, Nnewi, and were certified by Okwara D.U., Deputy Director.
The court documents confirm that the active allegation before the court pertains to a police complaint of conspiracy and cybercrime arising from voice notes circulated on WhatsApp concerning Mr. Okoli Innocent.
The 30-day remand sought by the police is for investigative purposes and the procurement of the Attorney-General’s legal advice; it does not constitute a conviction. Okoye remains a suspect, and no court has yet pronounced him guilty.
Okoye, also known as Ebube Anaedo, was arrested in Nnewi on Saturday, September 5, 2026, by local vigilante operatives while performing what he described as a ritual cleansing of the land. He first drew national attention on January 14, 2026, when he walked out of the dedication of the Our Lady of Assumption Cathedral and publicly renounced his Christian faith.