Dokpesi’s Lawsuit: What Happened In Court On Wednesday

The #5 billion defamation suit which was filed by Raymond Dokpesi against the Minister of Information and Culture and the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice was on Wednesday adjourned until June 18 by the FCT High Court, Apo.

Dokpesi, who happens to be the chairman emeritus of DAAR Communications Plc, filed the suit on April 30, seeking #5 billion in damages from Mohammed and Abubakar Malami.

The Peoples Democratic Party chieftain claimed that Mohammed and Malami defamed his character by including his name on the treasury looters’ list.

Dokpesi who has been led by his counsel, Nkem Okoro, tendered various newspapers publication to support his claim of the defamatory statement made by the minister in the press conference on March 30, 2018.

Publication from Thisday, Vanguard, Daily Trust, Tribune, leadership, and Telegraph of March 31, 2018, were tendered by the claimant and admitted into the exhibit.

Dokpesi also tendered a CD titled, “politics today “containing the visual content of the defamatory statement made, listing him among the looters of the national treasury.

Counsel to Lai Mohammed, Mr. Terhember Akpe objected that the content of CD is not known nor the maker.

Justice Olukayode Adeniyi ruled that since the foundation was laid for the document and it was pleaded, it is admissible.

Okoro also applied and was granted permission to have the content of the CD played in the open court at the next adjourned day.

Dokpesi also tendered a letter written to him by the American Embassy on March 16, revolting his visa as a result of the Ministers conference listing him among the looters of the national Treasury.

He also tendered a letter written on his behave to Mohammed by Chief Mike Ozekhome titled ” Demand for Apology and retraction and was admitted as exhibit.

Justice Olukayode Adeniyi adjourned the case until June 18, for continuation of hearing, at the instance of Okoro, holding forth for Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN, counsel to Dokpesi.