The UK is urged to investigate CT Naija Investigation over claims of defamation, harassment and alleged breaches of online safety laws

The Government of the United Kingdom has been called upon to investigate the activities of UK-registered firm CT Naija and its director, Albert Obaze, following a formal petition alleging widespread online misconduct affecting individuals and public figures in Nigeria.

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The appeal was made by the Coalition for Good Governance and Economic Justice in Africa, in a letter addressed to the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery.

The group urged British authorities to conduct an impartial review of the company’s operations and compliance with UK laws governing digital publishing and online conduct.

In the petition signed by its Country Director, John Mayaki, the organisation alleged that multiple Nigerian citizens, community leaders, professionals, and public figures had submitted complaints accusing CT Naija-linked platforms of publishing defamatory, harassing and malicious content.

According to the group, the volume of complaints raises concerns about whether a UK-registered corporate entity may be operating in a manner inconsistent with standards of responsible journalism, corporate governance and online safety obligations.

The Coalition further argued that the allegations, if proven, could implicate provisions of UK legislation including the Malicious Communications Act 1988, the Protection from Harassment Act 1997, and the Communications Act 2003.

It stressed that the reported conduct appeared to have caused emotional distress, anxiety and reputational harm among alleged victims.

The petition also listed several individuals said to have been affected, including Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa, traditional ruler Oba Ewuare II, and Edo APC Chairman Jarret Tenebe.

The organisation alleged that content published through the platforms was repeatedly aimed at ridiculing or damaging reputations, alongside claims of sustained online harassment and unverified allegations circulated against targeted individuals.

It further stated that such activities, if substantiated, could amount to intimidation and digital abuse.

“These allegations have not, to our knowledge, been determined by a competent court of law, and we therefore seek an objective review by the relevant UK authorities,” the Coalition stated.

It called for a formal review of complaints linked to CT Naija Investigation, an assessment of compliance with UK regulatory frameworks, and a determination of whether any civil or criminal breaches may have occurred.

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As of press time, there has been no public response from CT Naija or its director regarding the petition, while attention now turns to whether British authorities will initiate a formal inquiry into the matter.