Mercy Chinwo and husband sue five people for defamation over baby's paternity

Popular Nigerian music minister, Mercy Chinwo Blessed, along with her husband, Pastor Blessed Uzochikwa, have taken legal action against five individuals for alleged criminal defamation.

The summon was issued by Chief Magistrate Emmanuel Iyanna of the Abuja magistrate court, directing the defendants to appear in person on Tuesday, April 23, 2024.

The court summons, dated Wednesday, April 3, 2024, stems from an incident where Mercy Chinwo's baby was publicly criticized on social media during Easter celebrations. Several internet users made disparaging remarks about the infant, suggesting a resemblance to veteran gospel singer, Nathaniel Bassey.

The defendants, namely Okoronkwo Ejike, Kingsley Ibeh, DJ Spoiltkid, Terrence Ekot, and Samuel Agozie, are accused of cyberstalking, spreading injurious falsehoods, and cyber intimidation against Mercy Chinwo Blessed and her spouse. The criminal complaint was filed by the complainants' attorneys, Pelumi Olajengbesi of the Abuja-based media firm Law Corridor.

According to the plaintiffs, the alleged actions of the defendants violated Sections 24 (1)(B) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015 and Section 391 of the Penal Code.