Emefiele writes Akpabio, threatens N25bn lawsuit over alleged defamation

Godwin Emefiele, the former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), has reportedly issued a legal threat against the President of the Nigerian Senate, Godswill Akpabio, accusing him of defamation. Emefiele, through his legal representatives, has indicated his intention to pursue a lawsuit against Akpabio if an apology is not issued, demanding compensation of N25 billion.

The threat comes in response to a statement made by Akpabio in a video aired by Channels Television, which Emefiele alleges to be false, distorted, and aimed at tarnishing his reputation. Akpabio’s statement implied that the current economic hardship in Nigeria is attributable to policies implemented during Emefiele’s tenure as CBN governor.

In a letter addressed to the Senate President and signed by Emefiele’s lead counsel, Matthew Burkaa, SAN, it was asserted that Akpabio’s remarks painted Emefiele as a serial offender responsible for the nation’s woes. Emefiele’s legal team accused Akpabio of undermining the integrity of the court proceedings concerning Emefiele, who is currently defending himself against charges.

The letter also highlighted that Emefiele’s actions as CBN governor were undertaken with the approval and authorization of the President and the Federal Executive Council, of which Akpabio was a prominent member. Therefore, Emefiele demanded a retraction of Akpabio’s statement and an apology, as well as compensation for the damage caused to his reputation, failing which legal action would be pursued.

The letter emphasized the detrimental impact of the false allegations on Emefiele’s character and reputation, indicating the seriousness of the matter and the need for redress under Nigerian law.