Ighodalo seeks N20bn compensation from Oshiomhole for defamatory allegations

Dr. Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the September 21 governorship election in Edo State, has issued a stern demand for N20 billion in damages from Adams Oshiomhole, a senior All Progressives Congress (APC) member and sitting senator.

This demand comes in response to allegations made by Oshiomhole on September 14, 2024, during a political rally in Benin City, where he accused Ighodalo of orchestrating a fraudulent scheme known as ‘PLANWELL.’

Oshiomhole had recklessly accused Ighodalo of being the brain behind a ponzi scheme, ‘PLANWELL’, in which numerous Nigerians were defrauded of their hard earned funds in the past.

Oshiomhole’s accusations, which Ighodalo’s legal team describes as reckless and unfounded, allege that Ighodalo was behind the ponzi scheme that defrauded numerous Nigerians of their savings.

In response, Ighodalo’s legal counsel, Chief Ayo Asala, SAN, of Ayo Asala and Associates, has issued a formal letter demanding redress.

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In the letter dated September 16, 2024, Asala criticized Oshiomhole’s actions, stating: “It is lamentable that despite your esteemed position as an elder and public official, you seem to have cultivated a pattern of disseminating falsehoods for your political gain. This baseless and malicious claim against our client is merely another instance of your defamatory behavior aimed at advancing your political interests.”

The letter emphasizes Ighodalo’s distinguished career and spotless reputation, firmly refuting any connection to the ‘PLANWELL’ scheme. Asala contends that the accusation is a fabricated ploy designed to undermine Ighodalo’s character and influence the upcoming gubernatorial election.

Asala further highlights the distress caused to Ighodalo, who has received numerous inquiries and concerns from the public due to the damaging allegations. The letter demands an immediate retraction and public apology, to be broadcast on at least two national television networks and published in three major newspapers. Additionally, it calls for N20 billion in damages for the harm caused.

The letter warns that failure to meet these demands will result in legal action. This incident follows a previous libel suit against Oshiomhole, reflecting an ongoing pattern of defamatory attacks aimed at Ighodalo.