The detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has filed a defamation lawsuit against Bashir Ahmad, a former Special Assistant on Digital Communication to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari.
The suit, brought before the High Court of Enugu State, alleges that Ahmad defamed Kanu by labeling him a terrorist in a statement published on X (formerly Twitter) and re-published on platforms like Talkofnaija.com and Phoenix-browser.com. Kanu is demanding ₦100 billion in damages, among other reliefs.
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Defamatory Allegations by Bashir Ahmad
On January 19, 2025, Ahmad allegedly described Kanu as “a terrorist and the leader of the proscribed terrorist organization IPOB,” further stating that anyone advocating for Kanu’s release is “a sworn enemy of this country.”
Ahmad also noted he would only support Kanu’s release if the IPOB leader underwent rehabilitation and renounced his controversial views about Nigeria.
These statements, Kanu claims, are defamatory, libelous, and aimed at tarnishing his reputation. According to his legal team, led by Barrister Aloy Ejimakor, the remarks have caused significant damage to Kanu’s character, reputation, and social standing globally and within Nigeria.
Key Reliefs Sought by Nnamdi Kanu
Kanu’s lawsuit outlines several demands, including:
- ₦100 Billion in Damages: Compensation for the alleged harm caused by Ahmad’s defamatory statements.
- Public Apology: A written and prominently published apology in three major national newspapers – The Sun, Daily Trust, and The Guardian.
- Perpetual Injunction: Restraining Ahmad from making further defamatory remarks against Kanu.
- Legal Costs: Ahmad to cover the costs of the suit.
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Implications of Ahmad’s Statements
Kanu contends that Ahmad’s remarks falsely portray him as:
- A convicted terrorist guilty of heinous crimes.
- A violent and irresponsible individual with no regard for human life.
- A felon undeserving of public trust or sympathy.
The suit further asserts that these statements have exposed Kanu to public ridicule, contempt, and embarrassment, undermining his reputation among his followers, admirers, and well-wishers.
Conclusion
This high-profile lawsuit underscores the growing tension surrounding Nnamdi Kanu’s ongoing legal battles and the broader political discourse in Nigeria. As the case unfolds, it is likely to draw significant public and media attention, given its implications for defamation law and freedom of expression in the digital age.
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