Emefiele Sends Warning to Akpabio: Threatens N25 Billion Lawsuit for Defamation

Godwin Emefiele, the former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), has issued a stern warning of legal action against Godswill Akpabio, the President of the Nigerian Senate, citing alleged defamation. Through his legal representatives, Emefiele has conveyed his intention to sue Akpabio for N25 billion in damages if an apology is not offered promptly.

The threat of legal action stems from remarks made by Akpabio in a widely circulated video aired by Channels Television. Emefiele contends that Akpabio's statements were false, distorted, and aimed at tarnishing his reputation.

In the letter addressed to Senator Akpabio and signed by his lead counsel, Matthew Burkaa, SAN, Emefiele asserts that Akpabio implied that the prevailing hardships in Nigeria are solely attributable to policies implemented during Emefiele's tenure. This insinuation, according to Emefiele, paints him as a habitual offender responsible for the nation's woes.

Emefiele further accuses Akpabio of subjudice, highlighting that he is currently facing charges in court and insinuates that Akpabio's comments undermine the integrity of the legal process.

The letter demands a retraction of Akpabio's statement, an apology published through the same medium used for the alleged defamation, and compensation of N25 billion for the damage inflicted on Emefiele's reputation.

Failure to comply with these demands, the letter suggests, will prompt Emefiele to seek legal redress within the framework of Nigerian law.