By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
Ogun State Magistrate Court has issued a bench warrant for blogger Adefela Adeigbe, who is facing trial for allegedly defaming Bullion Go-Neat Global Limited’s product, Cocosamba. Adeigbe failed to appear in court on February 26, 2025, prompting the prosecutor to request the warrant.
The case, which began on August 12, 2024, stems from Adeigbe’s publication on his blog, Eko Mi Eko E, where he claimed that Cocosamba “can kill.” The company, through its legal representatives, petitioned law enforcement, leading to his arrest and initial court appearance. Adeigbe was granted bail but was required to attend further proceedings.
During today’s hearing, Mr. Oguntade Samuel Oluseyi, General Manager of Bullion Go-Neat Global Limited, expressed disappointment over Adeigbe’s absence.
“I, Mr. Oguntade Samuel Oluseyi, the General Manager of Bullion Go-Neat Global Ltd, was present in court today, February 26, 2025, to give evidence in the case of Mr. Adefela Adeigbe, who wrote a publication on August 7, 2024, captioned: ‘COCOSAMBA CAN KILL’ via his blog Eko Mi Eko E. The news has damaged the reputation of my company’s product, forced investors to withdraw funds, led to staff losses, and instilled fear in the public,” he stated.
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. However, based on my personal knowledge and witness to the events described above, I believe that Mr. Adefela has willfully disobeyed the court’s orders, which led to the bench warrant issued today by the court,” he added.
The 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. The case also extends to other individuals, including Chioma Chukwunedu and Nairametrics, who remain at large.
Bullion Go-Neat Global Limited maintains that its product, Cocosamba, meets all regulatory standards and has not been flagged unsafe by any recognized authority. The company argues that the false information has caused economic losses exceeding ₦5 billion.
With the bench warrant now in effect, law enforcement agencies are expected to take necessary steps to ensure Adeigbe’s appearance in court.
