The absence of Ms Anthonet Izuegbu, friend of estranged wife of Senator Ned Nwoko, Regina Daniels has stalled her arraignment over a case of Defamation and allegedly routinely sourced, handled, and administered controlled and illegal substances to Regina and associated individuals preferred against her.

When the matter which is before Justice Ekerete Akpan of the Federal High Court Abuja, came up for arraignment on Thursday, July 16 2026, the defendant who collapsed during last arraignment was absent in court and the case was consequently adjourned to September 15, 2026.

Recall that Ms Izuegbu also known as “Ann” was arrested for criminal defamation against Senator Nwoko.

The Ned Nwoko media team, in a statement made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) stated that contrary to the misleading and inflammatory narratives being circulated across social media platforms, Izuegbu was arrested in connection with criminal defamation against the lawmaker.

The team explained that Izuegbu was arrested in connection with criminally defamatory statements she publicly made, alleging that the lawmaker physically assaulted his wife, Mrs Laila Nwoko, which resulted in a miscarriage.

“These claims are entirely false as no such incident occurred, and no miscarriage resulted from any alleged violence.

“The statements were made without evidence and form part of a coordinated attempt to reinforce previously circulated and unsubstantiated domestic violence allegations,” the team said.

The team also said that Izuegbu was implicated in the procurement of an illegal abortion for Regina Daniels, during her lawful marriage to the Nwoko.

According to the team, the incident occurred after the marriage, notwithstanding subsequent attempts to reframe the timeline.

“The legality of the act does not change based on narrative adjustments. The matter is on record and has previously been publicly referenced by Regina herself,” the statement said.

The team added that a formal witness statement dated Oct. 29, 2025 submitted to the Area Commander, Maitama Police Station, detailed repeated ongoing activities involving Izuegbua and others.

According to the team, the statement noted that Izuegbu allegedly routinely sourced, handled, and administered controlled and illegal substances to Regina and associated individuals.

The team further said that Izuegbu’s arrest was directly preceded by a public social media post in which she allegedly issued threats, made derogatory remarks, and repeated defamatory accusations against Mrs Laila Nwoko and the lawmaker.

“This post constituted provocation, intimidation, and criminal defamation under application law.

“It is important to emphasise that this matter is not a social media dispute but a law-enforcement issue grounded in evidence, witness testimonies, and due process.

“Any attempt to mischaracterize the arrest as suppression or victimisation is false and misleading,’’ the team added.

Oceangate Engineering Oil & Gas Limited has announced plans to appeal a recent ruling of the Federal High Court ordering the forfeiture of certain assets.

The company’s Secretary, Nnenna Onyeaso, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday, maintaining that neither the firm nor its leadership was found guilty of any wrongdoing.

Onyeaso said the company views the ruling as a civil asset forfeiture order based on suspicion rather than proof, she emphasise  that the judgment did not establish any criminal liability against the organisation.

She added that the firm has instructed its legal team to file an appeal, expressing confidence in the judicial process and optimism that a comprehensive review of the case will yield a favourable outcome.

“To be clear, this ruling is a civil asset forfeiture order with no finding of wrongdoing against Oceangate or its leadership.

“The court’s decision rested on a legal standard of suspicion, not proof, and it is one we intend to pursue fully through the appeals process,” she said in a statement.

The firm secretary also said that Oceangate has reiterated its belief in the rule of law, noting that the appellate system exists to address such outcomes.

She added that the company remained confident that the facts of the case will ultimately affirm its integrity and business practices.

Onyeaso said that the firm also emphasised that its operations remained unaffected, stating that it continues to provide employment for many Nigerians while contributing to the country’s energy sector and broader economy.

“We have always believed in the ability of the judicial process, and that belief has not wavered,” she added.

She noted that Oceangate further expressed appreciation to its employees, partners, and clients for their continued support amid the development, assuring stakeholders of its commitment to transparency and accountability.

The Secretary said that the company reaffirmed its confidence in Nigeria as a viable destination for investment, describing the country as a land of equity, growth, and opportunity.

“We remain committed to the continued growth of our business and the communities we serve as we are optimistic that justice will prevail at the end of the legal process.

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