Ighodalo set to sue Edo APC chairman for defamation

A Lagos-based law firm Banwo & Ighodalo has taken final steps to institute legal action against the acting chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State, Jarrett Tenebe, following his defamatory allegations against the Edo governorship candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and founding partner of the firm, Asue Ighodalo.

This decision follows Tenebe’s comments during a December 17 interview on TMC TV/Radio, where he claimed that Mr. Ighodalo “stole 21 government vehicles” from the Edo State Government.

In a formal letter dated December 18, 2024, and signed by senior advocate Abimbola Akeredolu (SAN), the firm condemned Tenebe’s accusations, describing them as “libelous, reckless, and unfounded.”

The firm noted that these allegations persist despite a December 11 letter demanding an immediate retraction and apology.

It also gave Tenebe three days to withdraw the statements or face formal court proceedings.

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The firm also reiterated its resolve to pursue all legal remedies if the defamatory statements are not retracted within the stipulated timeframe, emphasising that the weaponisation of misinformation for political gain erodes public trust and damages democratic institutions.

In the same vein, the Team Asue Media Organisation (TAMO), in a separate statement signed by Erhabor Emokpae, refuted the allegations of theft, describing them as a calculated smear campaign aimed at distracting the public and tarnishing Mr Ighodalo’s reputation.

TAMO clarified that Alaghodaro, which Ighodalo chaired, is a private-sector-led initiative focused on fostering economic growth and investments in Edo State.

The statement also highlighted Ighodalo’s integrity and selflessness, noting that he has personally funded his expenses throughout his 16 years of public service, including his time as chairman of Alaghodaro.

READ MORE FROM: NIGERIAN TRIBUNE