- Nnamdi Kanu accuses police spokesman Olumuyiwa Adejobi of defamation, claiming a press release falsely portrayed him as a terrorist leader
- Kanu seeks N20 billion in damages, a public apology, and a retraction of statements linking him to violent activities
The detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has filed a lawsuit against Nigeria Police Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory over alleged defamatory statements.
The suit, marked CR/267/2025 and dated January 28, 2025, was filed through Kanu’s lead counsel, Aloy Ejimakor. Kanu claims that a press statement issued by Adejobi defamed his character and amounted to libel.
The press release, titled Imo: Police Neutralise Six IPOB/ESN Terrorists, Recover Arms, was issued on January 25 and widely circulated.
Kanu argues that the statement falsely portrayed him as a terrorist leader by linking him to IPOB, which was referred to as a proscribed terrorist organization.
In the suit, Kanu contends that the alleged defamatory statements, read by his associates in Abuja and across Nigeria, were false and damaged his reputation. He insists that the words implied he led a violent group involved in terrorism in Imo State.
Kanu asserts that the statement was deliberately designed to portray him as the leader of a terrorist movement, holding him vicariously liable for alleged acts of terrorism.
He further argues that the publication was intended to harm his honesty, integrity, and public image.
“These statements go beyond fair comment,” Kanu stated, adding that they were malicious, made in bad faith, and intended to impugn his character.
As a result, Kanu is asking the court for the following declarations:
- That the defendant’s statements are defamatory and libelous.
- That Adejobi be compelled to retract the publications via the same media outlets by issuing a press statement.
- That the defendant issue and deliver an unreserved letter of apology to Kanu.
- That the letter of apology is published prominently in three national newspapers.
- A perpetual injunction restrain that Adejobi from making further defamatory statements against Kanu.
- The defendant should be ordered to pay N20 billion in general and exemplary damages.
Additionally, Kanu is seeking an order for Adejobi to cover the cost of the lawsuit.