ERISCO: Guarantor Accuses Chioma Okoli Of Bail Jumping, Highlights Role In Legal Saga
In a recent development concerning the ongoing consumer-producer conflict between Chioma Okoli and Erisco Foods, Dozie Ikedife Jr., a guarantor for Chioma Okoli, has spoken out, alleging that Okoli absconded after he secured her bail back in September 2023.
During an appearance on AIT’s Moneyline with Nancy, Ikedife, a politician from Anambra State, shed light on the events that transpired, detailing his involvement in securing Okoli’s release following her arrest.
Okoli, who is pregnant, had raised concerns about Erisco Foods’ Nagiko Tomato Mix on her Facebook account, prompting a response from the company. Subsequently, Erisco Foods lodged a complaint with the police, resulting in Okoli’s arrest under the Cybercrime Act.
Ikedife revealed that he acted as a mediator at the Force Headquarters, where Okoli, Erisco representatives, and legal advisors convened to resolve the matter. Despite efforts to reach a compromise, Okoli allegedly failed to comply with the agreed-upon terms, including issuing an apology letter and removing contentious statements from her social media.
According to Ikedife, Okoli’s non-compliance led to his detention by the police, as he was held responsible for her failure to appear. Despite repeated attempts to contact Okoli and her husband, he claims to have received no response, resulting in ongoing repercussions for him.
Efforts to reconcile the dispute out of court have proven challenging, with Ikedife expressing frustration over his entanglement in the matter. However, Effiong Inibehe, Okoli’s legal representative, refuted Ikedife’s allegations, stating that Okoli did not jump bail and questioning Ikedife’s motivations.
In response to the escalating tension, a news blog published an article attributed to Ikedife, reaffirming his support for Erisco Foods, further complicating the already contentious situation.
The unfolding saga underscores the complexities surrounding consumer-producer conflicts and the challenges of navigating legal disputes, with both parties seemingly entrenched in their positions.
