The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), sitting in Gwarinpa, Abuja, has directed that a ₦40 billion defamation suit against the Minister of the FCT, Mr. Nyesom Wike, be served through substituted means.
Delivering ruling on an ex parte application filed by former All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Rivers State, Tonye Cole, Justice M. A. Hassan ordered that the originating processes be pasted at the gate of the FCT Minister’s headquarters in Garki, Abuja, after attempts at personal service proved unsuccessful.
In the suit, marked CV/4502/25, Cole alleges that Wike defamed him during a televised appearance on Channels TV Politics Today on September 18, where the minister allegedly made statements described as false, malicious, offensive, and injurious to his personal, professional, and public reputation.
Cole contends that the remarks imputed financial impropriety and mismanagement of state resources, thereby gravely undermining his integrity. His counsel, Jibrin Okutepa, SAN, argued that the statements were defamatory and damaging to his client’s standing both nationally and internationally.
The claimant seeks ₦40 billion in damages for reputational harm arising from the alleged defamatory broadcast, alongside ₦500 million as litigation costs. He also prays the court to hold Wike accountable for what he terms a reckless and unfounded publication.
Justice Hassan, in granting substituted service, directed the defendant to enter appearance within 21 days of service. The matter has been adjourned to March 24 and 25, 2026, for hearing.
