Former lawmaker Senator Shehu Sani has stated that, like any other citizen, Dr. Aliko Dangote, President of the Dangote Group, has the right to take legal action against those who defame him.
Sani’s comments came in response to Dangote’s threat to sue Kaduna businessman Kailani Mohammed for N100 billion over an alleged libelous statement. Dangote, through his lawyer, gave Mohammed a seven-day ultimatum to retract the statement.
The alleged libelous comment was made by Mohammed during a TV interview, where he was reacting to Dangote’s petition to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) against Dr. Farouk Ahmed, former CEO of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).
Some social media users criticized Dangote, accusing him of violating freedom of speech. However, Shehu Sani defended Dangote’s position, saying on his Facebook page, “every citizen has the right to sue another citizen for defamation.”
He added, “Dangote too has the right. It’s very important that before you allege or malign someone you don’t like, you have to be armed with facts and evidence to prove your claims.”
Sani further warned social media users to be careful with their posts, stating, “It’s sweet to post on Social media but when directing your attack on someone, always be armed with facts. If you look at the way senior lawyers speak or post their messages on social media, you will see them being very calculated and surgical in their ways.”
He also highlighted the consequences of defamation lawsuits: “When you are sued for defamation, lawyers will charge you millions for defence. Those who ‘liked’ your post will never be in court with you nor contribute financially to get you out. A defamation case in court can last many years draining your resources and time.”
Senator Sani’s remarks emphasize the importance of responsible speech and the legal rights individuals have to protect their reputation.
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