Tension Soars: Court Drags Wike Into Explosive ₦40 Billion Defamation Case

An Abuja High Court has directed the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to formally appear in a ₦40 billion defamation case filed by Tonye Cole.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Channels Incorporated Limited, owners of Channels Television, is also named as a co-defendant in the suit.

According to a notice issued on Friday, the case — with suit number CV/4502/25 — has been scheduled for mention on December 9 before Justice M. A. Hassan of Court 33.

The lawsuit was triggered by remarks Wike made during a live appearance on Channels Television’s “Politics Today” on September 18.

Cole, the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Rivers State during the 2023 election, is accusing Wike of making false and damaging allegations that portrayed him as corrupt, particularly in relation to the management of Rivers State gas assets and the Olympia Hotel.

Court documents show that Cole is demanding ₦40 billion as compensation for alleged reputational damage, including humiliation and emotional distress. He is also seeking ₦500 million to cover legal expenses.

Additionally, Cole wants the court to declare Wike’s remarks defamatory, compel the defendants to retract the statements, pull down the broadcast from all platforms, and publish a public apology on Channels Television and in at least five major national dailies.

He further seeks an order restraining Wike and Channels Television from issuing any further defamatory content about him.

The court has given Wike and Channels Television 21 days from the date of service to respond and enter their appearance.