Rivers APC Ex-Governorship Candidate Tonye Cole Slams ₦40 Billion Suit Against FCT Minister Wike For Defamation
By Paul Ebi
Port Harcourt — The former All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Rivers State, Mr. Tonye Cole, has filed a ₦40 billion defamation lawsuit against the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, over what he described as “malicious and false statements” made against his person and reputation.
In the suit filed at a Federal High Court in Abuja, Cole is seeking damages for what he termed the “unfounded allegations and character assassination” allegedly made by Wike during a recent media interaction and political gathering. According to court documents obtained by journalists, the APC chieftain claims that the remarks were deliberately designed to portray him as corrupt and untrustworthy before the public.
Cole, who was the APC flag bearer in the 2023 Rivers governorship election, contended that Wike’s statements not only injured his personal integrity but also caused significant harm to his political standing and business interests both within and outside Nigeria.
“The defendant’s words were calculated to demean, discredit, and destroy my reputation, portraying me as a dishonest individual unfit for leadership,” the statement of claim partly reads. “Such reckless utterances have caused me deep emotional distress, public embarrassment, and economic loss.”
The former Rivers governor and current FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, is yet to officially respond to the suit. However, sources close to him described the legal action as “a political distraction” and maintained that Wike merely exercised his right to free speech.
Political observers say the lawsuit could further heighten the already tense political atmosphere in Rivers State, where the lingering power tussle between pro-Wike and anti-Wike factions continues to divide the APC and other political stakeholders.
Tonye Cole is asking the court to compel Wike to publicly retract his statements, offer an unreserved apology, and pay ₦40 billion in general and exemplary damages. The case has been assigned to a Federal High Court judge in Abuja, with hearing expected to commence in the coming weeks.
— Tarakiri Voice News
