Court orders publisher to pay Governor Ortom N5m damage for libel

A Makurdi High Court has ordered the publisher of Nigerian Concord, Mr. Aare Abiodun Oluwarotimi, to pay a fine of N5 million to Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom, as damages for libel.

Delivering judgement, on Monday, in a case instituted by the Governor, Justice Adam Onum, also ordered the publisher to retract the libelous publications in national newspapers, television, radio as well as social media platforms.

Speaking with newsmen after the judgement, Governor Ortom’s lawyer, Barr. Andrew Wombo, expressed satisfaction with the judgment and pledged that he would take legal steps to enforce it.

He stated that the objective of the case was not to make money from Oluwarotimi but to prove to the entire world that his publications against the office and person of the Governor were false, fabricated and mischievous.

Wombo stated that although the motive for instituting the case was not for financial benefit he would make sure the defendant pays the money as a deterrent against those bent on publishing falsehood against the Governor.

Daily Sun observed that through the duration of the proceedings, Mr. Oluwarotimi, failed to appear in court and was not represented by any defence counsel.

However, the court processes served on Oluwarotimi through substituted means in Daily Trust, The Nation newspapers as well as on his Facebook page.

The Governor had demanded N10 billion for damages.