Businessman Threatens N2 Billion Lawsuit Against Police Over Defamatory Post
Mr. Chinedu Ernest Nwaka, a businessman, has petitioned the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, accusing the police of defamation and demanding N2 billion in damages. The controversy stems from a November 27 social media post on an officer’s X account, which labeled Nwaka a “serial fraudster” involved in a N320 million fraud—a claim Nwaka strongly denies, emphasizing he has never been convicted of any crime.
At a press conference in Lagos, Nwaka’s lawyer, Chris Ejima Johnson of Dorminus Attorneys, condemned the police for overstepping their authority. He argued that the police acted as judge and jury by publicly branding Nwaka a criminal without any court conviction, calling the post defamatory and damaging to his client’s reputation.
The petition demands the removal of the post, a public apology in two national newspapers, and N2 billion in damages. Johnson warned that if these demands are not met within 48 hours, Nwaka will pursue legal action.
Johnson further alleged that the accusations stem from a failed business deal and that the police were aware of the true circumstances. “Our client has never been convicted of fraud or any criminal activity,” he stated. He accused the police of abandoning their investigative duties to engage in a “media trial,” which he described as unlawful.
“The police have no legal authority to declare anyone a fraudster or criminal without due process,” Johnson added, stressing that only a competent court can make such determinations. The case highlights concerns over the role of law enforcement in public accusations and the boundaries of police conduct on social media.
