The Nigeria Police Force has arrested and detained a man identified as David Nwokorie on the orders of a retired Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police, Hilary Okpara, following a complaint by his daughter, Genevieve Okpara, over allegations of cyberstalking and blackmail.
Family sources told SaharaReporters on Tuesday that David was arrested last week by operatives of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) and has been held in custody since then.
According to David’s legal counsel, Barrister Ezike Chibuzor, who is also representing him in the ongoing case, the situation stems from a failed relationship between David and Genevieve.
Chibuzor explained that David only discovered Genevieve had previously been married and had two children after their relationship had progressed significantly.
“Genevieve never disclosed her past marriage and children to David. When he found out, he ended the relationship,” Chibuzor said.
The lawyer further alleged that tensions escalated in January when Genevieve found out that David had proposed to another woman. In response, she reportedly stormed his home and damaged several household items.
“David forgave her initially, but the problems continued. Eventually, he decided to end both the relationship and their joint NGO project, which they had started less than a year ago,” the lawyer added.
David, through his lawyer, reportedly demanded N25 million in compensation from Genevieve for the damages caused to his property.
He also posted a flier online with Genevieve’s picture, describing her as “wanted for damages done to his home.”
Genevieve, in reaction to the post, filed a petition with the police, alleging cyberbullying and extortion. This led to David’s arrest.
“She was not happy about the post and reported him to the police. That’s how this issue started,” said the lawyer.
Meanwhile, David’s family alleges that Genevieve’s father, retired DIG Hilary Okpara, used his influence to get David arrested and detained.
“When we checked his [Hilary Okpara’s] profile, we saw that he was once a Commissioner of Police and later retired as an Assistant Inspector General (AIG). We believe he’s using his influence to keep David behind bars,” a family member told SaharaReporters.
According to Chibuzor, the police have secured a 14-day remand order and are working toward formally charging David in court.
“The remand order is expected to expire soon. The police had said they might file charges either yesterday or today,” the lawyer said.
There are also reports that David reached out to Genevieve’s estranged husband, allegedly sending him pictures of Genevieve, the children, and himself.
He has reportedly offered to testify in the custody battle between Genevieve and her husband.
“Genevieve and her husband are currently in court over custody of their children. David is promising to serve as a witness against her,” Chibuzor confirmed.
When SaharaReporters contacted Genevieve Opara for comment, she said David is currently detained for blackmail, cyberbullying, and making threats to life.
“I think you should speak to my lawyer because you won’t be able to get all the necessary information from me. The matter has already progressed significantly. Please speak to my lawyer — it’s already in court,” she said.
“Maybe I’ll share my lawyer’s number with you so you can call her. Let her tell you what she can disclose. But the police cannot just arrest people arbitrarily.”
“They must have had some information. He is — well, he is currently detained for blackmail, cyberbullying, and making threats to life. The police have a clear picture and a full story,” she added.
When SaharaReporters contacted Genevieve’s lawyer, she said: “I cannot divulge any further information. As of today, the matter is sub judice. That means it is already before the court, okay? And I cannot speak on it.
“You are acting on speculations, and I am telling you that the matter is now sub judice. As of today, it has already been filed in court and is now before a competent court of jurisdiction.”
“So, we can’t speak further on this matter,” she added.
© SaharaReporters
