A legal dispute is unfolding in Edo State as Banwo & Ighodalo, one of Nigeria’s leading law firms, has issued a seven-day ultimatum to the Edo APC Chairman, Mr. Tenebe, demanding a public retraction of an alleged defamatory statement made against their client, Mr. Asue Ighodalo.
The letter, dated December 11, 2024, and obtained exclusively by the leading online newspaper Truth Live News International, was signed by Chinedum Umeche FCIArb, a senior lawyer with the firm. It alleges that Mr. Tenebe, on December 10, 2024, recorded and widely circulated a video in which he referred to Mr. Ighodalo as a thief.
In the video, Mr. Tenebe reportedly said:
“Obaseki will not make such a mistake because he has stolen billions before. Asue Ighodalo will not make such a mistake because he has stolen billions before.”
The legal notice claims that the video, labeled as the “Defamatory Video,” has been widely disseminated across social media platforms, including Twitter, WhatsApp, Instagram, and even on Arise TV. Banwo & Ighodalo stated that the video has been reposted by blogs and influencers with large followings, further amplifying its reach and causing significant reputational harm to Mr. Ighodalo.
The letter describes the statements as “false, malicious, and defamatory” and accuses Mr. Tenebe of deliberately attempting to tarnish the reputation of Mr. Ighodalo, a prominent businessman and legal professional.
It further warns:
“You are advised that ignoring this letter may lead to court proceedings being issued against you by our Client in the High Court of Lagos State, without further notice.”
Banwo & Ighodalo demanded that Mr. Tenebe issue a public retraction and apology, both in the same media platforms where the alleged defamatory statements were made and circulated. The law firm emphasized that such a retraction must be unequivocal and must reach the same audience that received the defamatory statements.
At the time of filing this report, neither Mr. Tenebe nor the Edo State APC leadership had issued a response to the allegations. Legal analysts suggest this case could set a significant precedent in defamation law, given the prominence of the individuals involved and the widespread dissemination of the alleged defamatory material.
Chinedum Umeche FCIArb, the letter’s signatory, is known for his expertise in handling high-profile defamation and commercial litigation cases, adding weight to the legal ultimatum issued to Mr. Tenebe.
Truth Live News International will continue to monitor this developing story and provide updates as events unfold.