‘I Regret My Actions’: Doris Ogala Kneels, Apologises to Judge as Court Sends Her Back to Ikoyi Prison
• Bail hearing adjourned to November 6
Ogala, who is standing trial before Justice Aluko of the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos, was brought before the court on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, after allegedly failing to honour two previous court summonses.
She pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against her under Section 24(2)(a) of the Cybercrimes Act.
Her continued absence from earlier proceedings had reportedly prompted the court to direct her lawyer, Marshall Abubakar, to ensure that she appeared before the court.
But what was expected to be another stage in the legal battle reportedly turned dramatic when Ogala allegedly caused a commotion inside the courtroom, shouting and singing “Solidarity Forever.”
The incident reportedly angered the judge and further complicated her bid for temporary freedom.
At the accelerated bail hearing on Friday, October 30, prosecutor Tolulope Mokulu and defence counsel Abubakar appeared before the court as Ogala’s legal team pushed for her release on bail.
Abubakar pleaded for what he described as a “soft landing,” arguing that Ogala remained presumed innocent until proven guilty.
He also undertook, through an affidavit, to personally ensure that the actress attends all subsequent court proceedings.
Justice Aluko, however, did not appear impressed by the defendant’s previous conduct.
The judge reportedly told the defence that Ogala’s behaviour could have attracted a two-month custodial sentence for contempt of court, stressing that the courtroom was not a place for unruly or provocative behaviour.
The court also indicated that it expected an unreserved apology over the incident.
Ogala subsequently appeared before the judge in a sober mood, knelt and tendered an unreserved apology, saying she regretted her actions and promising not to repeat such behaviour.
Justice Aluko thereafter admonished the actress to put aside what he described as ego and provocative behaviour, reminding her that she was yet to be convicted of the allegations against her.
The judge reportedly expressed surprise that Ogala could behave in such a manner in court, noting that even prominent Nigerians, including governors who have appeared before the courts, are expected to maintain decorum.
Justice Aluko also noted that the court had initially moved to fast-track the actress’s bail application out of judicial leniency.
Despite the apology, Ogala was not released.
After considering the arguments and counter-affidavits filed by both sides, the court adjourned the bail hearing until Friday, November 6, 2026.
Ogala will remain at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre pending the determination of her bail application on the adjourned date.