.As J.J. Usman threatens court action over alleged defamatory statements
By Anthony Ochela, Abuja
A fresh legal storm is brewing as Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), J.J. Usman, has issued a stern legal warning to Honourable Ikenga Ugochinyere, a member of the House of Representatives, over alleged defamatory remarks made during a recent press conference.
In a letter dated March 14, 2025, and signed by his legal representatives, M.S. Ibrahim (SAN) & Co., Usman demanded an immediate retraction and public apology for what he described as “baseless and unfounded derogatory statements” made by Ugochinyere during a press briefing that br
ired on Arise News on March 13, 2025.
The the friction stems from a lawsuit filed by members of the Imo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, challenging Ugochinyere’s legislative position.
Usman, who was retained as legal counsel for the plaintiffs, stated that the lawmaker maliciously misrepresented his role in the litigation.
During his press conference, Ugochinyere allegedly questioned Usman’s professional integrity, suggesting that the SAN was complicit in a judicial maneuver aimed at unlawfully removing him from office.
He reportedly cast aspersions on Usman’s standing in the legal profession, insinuating that he had engaged in unethical practices.
The letter from Usman’s legal team decried the statements as “reckless, slanderous, and damaging,” asserting that they have tarnished the senior lawyer’s reputation.
The legal notice further alleged that Ugochinyere’s comments were politically motivated, aimed at discrediting Usman for personal and electoral gain.
According to the demand letter, the defamatory statements have subjected Usman to “scandal, hatred, ridicule, odium, and contempt” in the eyes of the legal community and the general public.
It insisted that an immediate retraction and apology be issued within 48 hours in the same medium, as well as in at least seven national newspapers.
Failure to comply, the letter warned, would prompt Usman to pursue legal redress, potentially leading to a defamation suit with significant financial consequences.
As tensions rise, all eyes are now on Ugochinyere to see whether he will bow to the demand for an apology or brace himself for what could be a protracted legal battle.
