Femi Gbajabiamila Initiates Defamation Lawsuit Against Prince Adeniyi Mathew
In a significant legal move, Femi Gbajabiamila, the Chief of Staff to the President, has filed a defamation lawsuit seeking NOK 15 billion against Prince Adeniyi Adeyemi Mathew. This suit was lodged at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in Abuja, addressing Mathew’s claims regarding a 48% rebate on the N27.3 billion take-off grant awarded to a federal government agency.
Allegations of Conspiracy Result in Arrest Order
The unfolding drama intensified on Tuesday when Justice Mohammed Umar of the Federal High Court in Abuja issued an arrest order for Mathew. He was absent for arraignment concerning eight criminal charges, which include conspiracy, forgery, and impersonation. Mathew has positioned himself as the Executive Director of the contentious Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC).
Details of the Defamation Suit
In his lawsuit, Gbajabiamila is claiming N10 billion in general damages, N5 billion in aggravated damages, and an additional N200 million to cover legal costs. He seeks a court order that would compel Mathew to publish a full retraction and apology in five national newspapers. Furthermore, he is requesting that the court direct Mathew to display an apology for 30 days across all social media and online platforms where the allegedly defamatory statements were made.
Rejection of Allegations
Through his legal team, led by prominent lawyer Kemi Pinheiro, Gbajabiamila has categorically denied the accusations, labeling them false, malicious, and defamatory. He asserts that he has never met Mathew or authorized anyone to act on his behalf regarding any financial dealings.
Claims of Corruption and Threats
According to court records, Mathew alleged that their conflict arose when Gbajabiamila purportedly demanded a 48% kickback from the agency’s initial grant. He claimed that 400 million naira had already been paid through a representative of Gbajabiamila, with an additional 200 million naira pending presidential approval. Furthermore, Mathew’s statements involved allegations surrounding the mysterious death of an intermediary, Babatunde Tanimora, suggesting his involvement with Gbajabiamila.
Contradictory Statements and Non-retraction Efforts
In various interviews, Mathew reportedly contradicted his earlier claims. His sworn witness statement revealed that he had never personally met Tanimora, nor had he validated his identity through video calls. He also admitted uncertainty about Gbajabiamila’s honesty, stating he would submit documents for police verification. Despite opportunities to retract these allegations on national platforms, Mathew did not do so, which further entrenched the ongoing legal battle.
Impact on Reputation and Moving Forward
Gbajabiamila emphasized that the continuous public assertions have prompted inquiries from colleagues and peers both domestically and internationally, exacerbating the harm to his reputation. He has refrained from addressing the media directly, maintaining that legal proceedings are the appropriate avenue for resolution. This lawsuit, he contends, is not just about restoring his good name but also safeguarding the integrity of the Office of the President’s Chief of Staff against baseless claims.
Plaintiffs have expressed confidence in the court’s justice system as they seek comprehensive relief and a thorough examination of the evidence surrounding this case.
