By Kalu Onyemaechi
The Federal High Court in Abuja has struck out a ₦2 billion suit instituted against Sahara Reporters and others for alleged defamatory publication against the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami.
A group, Incorporated Trustee of Global Integrity Crusade Network, had in the suit accused Sahara Reporters, Vanguard Media Limited and two others of defamation against Malami.
Joined in the suit are Omoyele Sowore and Barrister Kabiru Akingbolu.
The group had prayed the court to compel the defendants to jointly pay Malami the ₦2 billion as compensation for the trauma, emotional stress, damage and or injury caused the AGF due to the alleged propaganda, fake news and blackmail published in the July 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 and 18, 2020 edition of their media organisation.
But during the trial held on Thursday, the court dismissed the case.
In her judgement, justice Obiora Egwuatu awarded ₦100,000 against the litigants, saying they have no right to approach the Federal High Court to sue on behalf of the AGF.
The judge held that the AGF should be bold enough to go to court if he felt he was libelled by the newspapers.
The lawsuit was prosecuted by Marshal Abubakar of Femi Falana Chambers.
Via Sahara Reporters.
