Ighodalo Slams N500m Suit Against Edo APC Chairman Over Defamation Claims

By Emmanuel Kwada

Dr. Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the last Edo State governorship election, has filed a ₦500 million defamation lawsuit against Jarret Tenebe, the acting Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State. The lawsuit, filed at the Lagos State High Court, seeks damages, a retraction of alleged defamatory remarks, and a public apology.

The case stems from a viral video dated December 10, 2024, in which Tenebe accused Ighodalo of corruption, stating that he wouldn’t make a certain mistake because he has stolen billions before. This was reportedly in response to a gaffe by Governor Monday Okpebholo during his budget presentation to the Edo State House of Assembly.

Before the lawsuit, Ighodalo’s legal team issued a pre-action notice demanding a retraction and apology, which Tenebe rejected. Tenebe’s lawyer denied defamation claims, citing reports from the Edo State Vehicle Recovery Committee and Asset Verification Committee as justification.

The viral video caused significant reputational harm, attracting distress and inquiries from colleagues and business associates

Ighodalo argues that the viral video caused significant reputational harm, attracting distress and inquiries from colleagues and business associates. He has asked the court to compel Tenebe to apologize publicly within seven days of the judgment.

The hearing, presided over by Justice A.O. Opesanwo, is scheduled for March 5, 2025.