The suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu, has issued a stern legal warning to the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) over what she claims is defamatory reporting.
Through her legal representative, Chikaosolu Ojukwu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Edu is demanding $50 million in compensation from the media organization.
In a detailed letter sent to both the BBC’s offices in Abuja and London, Edu’s counsel accuses the BBC of spreading false information regarding an ongoing investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The report alleged that N30 billion was recovered from the suspended minister, causing immense reputational damage, psychological distress, and anguish to Edu.
The letter strongly criticizes the BBC’s article, arguing that it insinuated Edu’s guilt without upholding the presumption of innocence, a fundamental principle in fair reporting. Furthermore, it accuses the BBC of disregarding journalistic ethics by failing to provide Edu with an opportunity to respond to the allegations before publication.
Highlighting Edu’s clean record and absence of any financial wrongdoing during her tenure, the letter vehemently refutes the claims made by the BBC. It stresses that no evidence exists to support the alleged recovery of funds from Edu’s bank accounts or any involvement in illicit activities.
The letter concludes by underscoring the significant harm caused to Edu’s reputation and mental well-being because of the BBC’s publication. It emphasizes the distress and shock experienced by Edu and her associates following the article’s dissemination.
Meanwhile, the letter serves as a firm warning to the BBC, signaling Edu’s intent to pursue legal action unless the defamatory claims are retracted and appropriate compensation is provided.
