A legal storm is brewing in Ondo State, the High Court in Akure has summoned former First Lady Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu and Olumide Akinrinlola, publisher of Starnews Online Newspapers, over a libel scandal. The Ondo State Commissioner for Finance, Omowunmi Isaac demands a sum of ₦1 billion in damages over a controversial news report.
The Controversial Publication
At the heart of the legal battle is a Starnews Online article published on February 13, 2025, titled:
“I Wouldn’t Be a Widow If Aketi Had Listened to Me – Betty Akeredolu Talks Tough.”
In the report, Betty Akeredolu allegedly made statements suggesting that Omowunmi Isaac had been sacked during her late husband’s administration due to financial misconduct. The former First Lady was quoted as saying:
“No comments. However, it’s worth noting that this same Commissioner was sacked from her position during Aketi’s first administration for financial malfeasance. You can connect the dots as to why Lucky brought her back. We are watching.”
The Commissioner strongly refuted Betty’s claims. She insisted that she was never dismissed but was merely reassigned to a different role within the government.
Legal Demands: ₦1 Billion and a Public Apology
The commissioner of finance has taken the matter to court and is seeking ₦1 billion in damages for alleged defamation, a public retraction of the story and an unreserved apology published in two national newspapers.
The court summons, signed by Registrar Adebanjo T.A., warns that the defendants must appear in court within 30 days or risk judgment being passed in their absence.
Conclusion
This case transcends a simple courtroom battle; it’s a crucial test of media responsibility and the boundaries of free speech in Nigeria. The high-profile nature of the individuals involved means the outcome will likely set a precedent for future defamation cases, particularly in the political sphere. The actions of Betty Akeredolu and Starnews Online, whether they contest the lawsuit or issue an apology will be closely watched as the drama unfolds in the Ondo High Court. The stakes are high for both parties and for the future of media accountability in Nigeria.
