Chief of Staff to the President and former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, has instituted a N15 billion defamation lawsuit against businessman Rasaq Adeyemi over allegations connected to an alleged fake agency scandal.
The suit, filed before a competent court, follows statements allegedly made by Adeyemi, which Gbajabiamila maintains are false, defamatory, and damaging to his reputation. Through his legal representatives, he is seeking N15 billion in damages for the alleged harm caused by the publication and dissemination of the claims.
According to the court filings, Gbajabiamila contends that the allegations have injured his character and public standing. He argues that the statements lack factual basis and were made with the potential to mislead members of the public.
The legal action adds a new dimension to the controversy surrounding the alleged fake agency claims, shifting the matter from public debate to judicial determination. The court is expected to examine the evidence presented by both parties before reaching a decision on the merits of the case.
The lawsuit underscores the increasing use of civil litigation by public officials to challenge statements they consider defamatory. It also highlights the legal balance between protecting individual reputations and safeguarding freedom of expression under Nigerian law.
The matter is expected to proceed through the judicial process, with both parties given the opportunity to present their cases before the court.