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Abuja High Court Summons FCT Minister Over N40 Billion Defamation Suit
A Federal High Court in Abuja has mandated Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), to formally respond to a defamation lawsuit seeking N40 billion in damages. The suit was initiated by Tonye Cole, a former governorship candidate in Rivers State.
Channels Television Also Named in Legal Action
Channels Incorporated Limited, the parent company of Channels Television, is jointly implicated as a co-defendant in the case. The matter, registered under case number CV/4502/25, is slated for mention on December 9 before Justice M. A. Hassan in Court 33.
Background and Legal Representation
Cole’s legal counsel, headed by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Jibrin Okutepa, revealed that the lawsuit was filed following the defendants’ failure to respond to a pre-action notice and a demand letter dated October 8. The suit centers on comments made by Wike during a September 18 interview on Channels Television’s program, Politics Today.
Allegations and Claims
In the suit, Cole alleges that Wike’s statements were defamatory, false, and malicious, severely damaging his reputation both domestically and internationally. The remarks reportedly insinuated Cole’s involvement in financial misconduct and mismanagement related to Rivers State’s gas assets and the Olympia Hotel project.
Cole asserts that these allegations have caused him significant emotional distress, public humiliation, and professional harm. He is demanding N40 billion in damages, alongside an additional N500 million to cover legal expenses.
Relief Sought by Plaintiff
The plaintiff is requesting the court to officially declare the contested statements as defamatory. Furthermore, he seeks an order compelling the defendants to retract the allegations, remove the broadcast from all media platforms, and issue public apologies on Channels Television and in at least five national newspapers.
Additionally, Cole is pursuing a permanent injunction to prevent Wike and Channels Television from publishing or disseminating any further defamatory content about him.
Court’s Directive and Next Steps
The court has instructed both Wike and Channels Incorporated Limited to enter their appearances within 21 days of receiving the writ, signaling the commencement of formal proceedings.
About the Author
Oluwatosin Ogunjuyigbe
Oluwatosin Ogunjuyigbe is a seasoned journalist and writer specializing in business, finance, and technology. He is dedicated to demystifying complex economic trends and delivering insightful narratives on Nigeria’s evolving economic landscape.
