A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has ordered the remand of a member of the House of Representatives, Amobi Godwin Ogar, at the Kuje Correctional Centre over allegations of criminal defamation and false declaration.

Justice Yusuf Halilu issued the order after the federal lawmaker, who represents Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency of Abia State, was arrested and brought before the court.

According to a warrant of commitment dated June 24, 2026, Ogar is to remain in custody pending the continuation of proceedings in Charge No. CR/650/2024. The matter has been adjourned until July 6, 2026.

The court directed prison authorities to keep the lawmaker in custody until further orders, stating that if no decision is reached before the adjourned date, he should be returned to court for further directives.

The case stems from a five-count criminal charge filed by the Federal Government on July 31, 2024, accusing Ogar of making false declarations and defamatory statements against former Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Hon. Nkeiruka Chidubem Onyejeocha.

According to the prosecution, Ogar allegedly swore to an affidavit dated May 18, 2023, in which he claimed that Onyejeocha told her supporters she had influenced tribunal judges handling an election dispute, including Justice Halima Saleeman.

The government contends that the statement was false and constituted an offence under the Penal Code.

In another count, the lawmaker was accused of alleging in the same affidavit that Onyejeocha orchestrated the removal of the original chairman of the election petition tribunal to pave the way for a judge she allegedly knew personally and who would rule in her favour.

The prosecution maintained that the claim was defamatory and knowingly false.

One of the charges further alleges that Ogar made the declarations with the intent to damage Onyejeocha’s reputation, resulting in harm to her public image.

The Federal Government argues that the actions amount to offences punishable under relevant provisions of the Penal Code.

The case is expected to resume on July 6, when the court will continue hearing the matter.