CurrentReport Blog Former Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom, has issued a legal demand against Mkor Aondona, the Special Adviser to the current Benue State Governor on Research and Documentation. Ortom has accused Aondona of publishing defamatory statements and false allegations of financial mismanagement on social media.
The legal notice, signed by Ortom’s counsel, Barrister S. E. Irabor, claims that Aondona’s actions constitute cyberstalking, criminal defamation, malicious falsehood, and libelous publication.
Details of the Allegations
The controversy stems from a Facebook post by Aondona on November 8, 2024, titled:
“May God Almighty Never Allow The Wickedness Of An Ortom To Overshadow His Glory!”
Ortom’s legal counsel described the post as a “mischievous, malicious, and malevolent web of lies” aimed at tarnishing the former governor’s reputation.
Key allegations made by Aondona include:
- Misappropriation of funds for the proposed Cargo Airport at Daudu and Igumale Cement Factory.
- Ownership of a private water factory along the River Benue.
- Misuse of industrial machinery intended for the state.
Ortom Denies Claims
Barrister Irabor categorically refuted the allegations, stating that:
- No funds were expended on the airport or cement factory during Ortom’s administration.
- Ortom has no ownership of any water factory by the River Benue.
- The former governor has never faced legal action for tax evasion or mismanagement.
The legal notice further accused Aondona of sustaining these claims through additional Facebook posts on November 9, despite the threat of legal action.
Demands from Mkor Aondona
The legal demand outlined the following actions for Aondona to undertake:
- Public Retraction and Apology: A letter addressed to Ortom, along with publications in at least five national dailies.
- Media Apologies: Paid advertorials on major TV and radio stations, including Arise News, Channels TV, AIT, TVC News, NTA, Radio Benue, and Harvest FM Makurdi.
- Written Undertaking: A commitment not to make further defamatory statements.
- Monetary Compensation: Payment of N1 billion as damages for reputational harm.
Legal Implications
Should Aondona fail to meet these demands, Ortom’s legal team has vowed to pursue the matter in court.
This case highlights the growing impact of social media on political discourse and the potential legal consequences of unsubstantiated public statements.
For further updates, stay connected to our platform for in-depth coverage of the unfolding legal proceedings.
