The Federal Capital Territory High Court in Jabi, Abuja, on Monday commenced hearing a ₦550 million defamation lawsuit filed by Senator Chris Anyanwu against former Imo State Governor, Ikedi Ohakim.
The case stems from allegedly defamatory comments made by Ohakim in a January 12, 2025, interview, which Anyanwu claims damaged her reputation.
She seeks ₦550 million in damages and a public apology in two national newspapers.Justice M.I. Sani dismissed a preliminary objection by Ohakim’s legal team, led by Ken Njemanze (SAN), who argued the trial should be halted pending a pre-trial conference to streamline issues, as required by court rules.
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Njemanze stated, “A pre-trial is fundamental to streamline issues.” However, Anyanwu’s counsel, Umeh Kalu (SAN), countered that no pre-trial was necessary under Order 38(1), as pleadings were complete and witnesses were ready.
“We cannot be enslaved to procedural technicalities when justice is at stake,” Kalu argued.Justice Sani ruled in favor of proceeding, stating, “I hereby order the plaintiff’s counsel to proceed with his witnesses.”
The claimant’s first witness, Dr. Joyce Ejukonemu, a Senior Researcher, testified, led by Kunle Kosoko of Umeh Kalu Chambers.
Kalu tendered documents, including a January 24, 2025, press statement and a Naija News report. Njemanze objected to the Naija News report, citing its electronic origin and lack of a certificate of compliance under Section 84 of the Evidence Act, and noted the report was a photocopy without proper foundation.
Kalu argued that oral certification in the witness’s sworn statement sufficed but withdrew the press release to avoid further dispute.
The court adjourned to December 1, 3, and 5, 2025, for rulings on document admissibility and continuation of the trial.