A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, has formally opened the door for proceedings in a ₦40 billion defamation case filed by former Rivers State governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Tonye Cole, against the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.
Justice M. A. Hassan, presiding over the matter, scheduled March 25, 2026, for the substantive hearing. The court fixed the date after granting Cole’s request to serve the court documents on Wike through substituted means—a method allowed when direct service on a defendant proves difficult.
The suit, filed under reference number CV/4502/25, lists Wike as the first defendant.
Cole Accuses Wike of False and Damaging Claims
In his statement of claim, Cole—represented by senior lawyer Jibrin Okutepa (SAN)—asserted that Wike made several defamatory allegations during a televised interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on September 18. According to Cole, the comments portrayed him as being involved in corruption, financial misconduct, and mismanagement in relation to the Rivers State Gas/Olympia Hotel project.
He described the remarks as “false, malicious, and highly injurious,” arguing that Wike’s statements attacked his credibility not only in Nigeria but also internationally. Cole contends that the televised accusations subjected him to public ridicule, emotional distress, and severe reputational damage.
Cole Seeks Massive Damages and Public Apology
As compensation, Cole is asking the court to award:
- ₦40 billion in general damages,
- ₦500 million to cover legal expenses.
He is also seeking several non-monetary remedies, including:
- A mandatory retraction of the statements,
- Removal of the interview from all media platforms,
- A public apology broadcast on Channels Television,
- Publication of the apology in at least five widely circulated Nigerian newspapers.
Additionally, he is requesting a perpetual injunction to prevent Wike from making any further defamatory statements about him.
Cole confirmed that he had already issued a pre-action notice on October 8, in line with legal requirements.
Court Grants Substituted Service
During Tuesday’s session, Justice Hassan approved an ex parte motion filed by Cole’s legal team, authorizing that all court documents be posted at the headquarters of the FCT Administration in Garki, Abuja. Okutepa had informed the court that attempts to personally serve Wike had been unsuccessful, prompting the request for alternative service.
With the court’s approval and a hearing date now set, the stage is set for a high-profile legal confrontation between two prominent political figures—one that could have significant implications for both their careers and the political climate in Rivers State and beyond.
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