In a landmark judgment, an Oyo State High Court sitting in Ibadan has dismissed a N5 billion defamation suit filed by the Aareonakakanfo of Yorubaland, Chief Gani Adams, against Yoruba nation agitator, Chief Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho. The suit, which was marked M/1006/2004, was filed by Adams through his counsel, Sikiru Akinrele, seeking the enforcement of his fundamental rights.
The genesis of the suit dates back to Adams’ allegations that Igboho unlawfully recorded a private telephone conversation without his consent and published defamatory content, which he claimed violated his right to privacy under Section 37 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). Adams demanded N5 billion in damages, among other reliefs, including a declaration that the alleged secret recording and subsequent publication of his private phone conversation were unlawful, illegal, and unconstitutional.
However, Igboho’s counsel, Mr. Junaid Sanusi, vehemently opposed the application and filed a counter-affidavit and written address, which were adopted in court. Sanusi argued that the suit was fundamentally flawed because Adams did not personally depose to the affidavit, nor did the third-party deponent explain why Adams could not do so himself — a requirement under the law.
In a judgment delivered on Thursday, Justice O.T. Ademola-Salami upheld the objections raised by Igboho’s counsel, ruling that the affidavit in support of Adams’ claims was defective and thus inadmissible. The court also noted that Adams failed to provide sufficient evidence proving that Igboho tapped or recorded his telephone conversations.
With no legal representation present for Adams at the proceeding, the judge dismissed the suit and awarded N500,000 in costs to Sunday Igboho. This judgment marks a significant victory for Igboho, who has been a vocal advocate for the Yoruba nation.
The court’s decision has been seen as a testament to the importance of adhering to the rules of evidence and procedure in the pursuit of justice. By dismissing the suit, the court has sent a strong message that frivolous lawsuits will not be tolerated.
The outcome of this case has significant implications for the rights of individuals to privacy and free speech. It highlights the need for individuals to be mindful of the potential consequences of their actions when engaging in public discourse.
Sunday Igboho’s victory in this case is a welcome development for his supporters, who have been following the case closely. The judgment is seen as a vindication of Igboho’s right to free speech and his advocacy for the Yoruba nation.
In the words of Igboho’s counsel, Mr. Junaid Sanusi, “This judgment is a testament to the strength of our case and the importance of upholding the rules of evidence and procedure in the pursuit of justice.”
As the dust settles on this case, it is clear that Sunday Igboho has emerged victorious. The court’s decision has set a precedent for future cases, and it will be interesting to see how this judgment impacts the broader discourse on free speech and privacy in the country.
The dismissal of this suit marks the end of a long and arduous journey for both parties involved. While Adams may have been disappointed by the outcome, Igboho’s victory is a significant morale boost for his supporters.
In conclusion, the judgment delivered by Justice O.T. Ademola-Salami is a landmark decision that highlights the importance of adhering to the rules of evidence and procedure in the pursuit of justice. Sunday Igboho’s victory in this case is a testament to the strength of his case and the importance of upholding the rights of individuals to free speech and privacy.
