OWERRI, Nigeria — Former Governor of Imo State, Ikedi Ohakim, has filed a N1 billion libel lawsuit against Batos Chikezie Nwadike, a former political appointee in Imo State, for defamation and libel.
In the suit, marked SUIT NO: HOW/701/2023, filed at the Owerri Division of High Court of Imo State on Tuesday, July 4, 2023 by Aloy Ejimakor, Dr Ohakim’s Counsel, the former governor alleges that Nwadike recorded and circulated an audio clip defaming him.
In the audio clip, which became viral through WhatsApp, Nwadike allegedly asserted that Ohakim was involved in a corrupt scheme to channel a $1 million bribe intended to influence the outcome of the recent Labour Party gubernatorial primary in Imo State.
Dr Ohakim stated in the suit that Nwadike’s claims are “false, malicious, wicked and reckless” and have tarnished his character, credit, reputation, and integrity.
DOWNLOAD: Writ of Summons in case of Ohakim vs Nwadike
The former governor is seeking an order from the court directing Nwadike to pay N1 billion in damages for defamation.
He also requests that the court declare the allegations made in the viral audio slanderous, libelous, and defamatory.
Furthermore, Ohakim is seeking a court order to have Nwadike retract the allegations via another audio clip and to deliver an unreserved letter of apology. Additionally, he seeks an order to prohibit Nwadike from making other defamatory and libellous statements about him.
A Writ of Summons, issued by Barrister Ejimakor and signed by the court Registrar, commands Nwadike to appear within forty-two days of service.
There is no sign of a response from the defendant, and the suit has yet to be listed for hearing by the Imo State High Court, Owerri.
