A bench warrant was issued by the Ogun State Magistrate Court on Wednesday for blogger Adefela Adeigbe, who is facing trial for allegedly defaming Bullion Go-Neat Global Limited’s product, Cocosamba.
Adeigbe’s failure to appear in court on February 26, 2025, prompted the prosecutor to request the warrant.
The case began on August 12, 2024, after Adeigbe published a claim on his blog, Eko Mi Eko E, stating that Cocosamba “can kill.”
The company, through its legal representatives, petitioned law enforcement, leading to Adeigbe’s arrest and initial court appearance.
Adeigbe was granted bail but was required to attend further proceedings.
During Wednesday’s hearing, Mr. Oguntade Samuel Oluseyi, General Manager of Bullion Go-Neat Global Limited, expressed disappointment over Adeigbe’s absence.
Oluseyi stated that the news had damaged the reputation of the company’s product, forced investors to withdraw funds, led to staff losses, and instilled fear in the public.
Oluseyi further accused Adeigbe of deliberately avoiding the trial. “I believe that Mr. Adefela’s absence is a deliberate attempt to avoid facing the consequences of his actions,” he said.
Oluseyi added that Adeigbe had willfully disobeyed the court’s orders, leading to the bench warrant.
He said: “Police prosecution had previously charged Adeigbe with defamation under Section 375 of the Criminal Code Law of Ogun State and conduct likely to cause a breach of peace under Section 249.”
Speaking on the product, Oluseyi said: “Our product, Cocosamba, meets all regulatory standards and has not been flagged unsafe by any recognized authority.”
He maintained that the false information has caused economic losses exceeding ₦5 billion and the purveyors of fake news must pay.
He added that: “With the bench warrant now in effect, law enforcement agencies are expected to take necessary steps to ensure Adeigbe’s appearance in court.”
