The State Security Service's (SSS) ability to pursue cybercrimes was questioned in a preliminary objection that was brought before a Federal High Court in Yenagoa on Friday.
A teenager was charged with cyberstalking on one count by the SSS and appeared in court on October 18, 2021.
The prosecution claims that the defendant engaged in cyberstalking by posting a retired permanent secretary's naked photo on social media after attempting to blackmail the retiree into giving her N15 million.
Andrew Arthur, the adolescent girl's attorney, had submitted a Notice of Objection contesting the authority of SSS to look into and pursue the complaint brought against the defendant.
Justice Isa Dashen announced his judgement after carefully considering the arguments and legal precedents offered by the defense and prosecution attorneys.
“I have carefully considered the submission of counsels on both sides and the cases they cited and I understand them. I disagree with the defense that DSS lacks the powers to prosecute cybercrimes.
“Under the Cybercrimes Prevention and Prohibition Act 2015, the DSS is a relevant security Agency and has competence to investigate and prosecute cybercrimes.
“The DSS has competently investigated this case and prosecuting counsel for DSS, Victor Uchendu has the powers of prosecution and I dismiss the Notice of Preliminary Objection.
“The case is hereby adjourned until Sept. 28,” Dashen said.
After submitting a petition to the secret service, the retired permanent secretary, who is now deceased, testified in court for the SSS. He said that the adolescent produced a naked film of him when they were having sex in a hotel in Yenagoa in August 2021.
In November 2022, the retired permanent secretary passed away.