Suspended Nigerian Minister Betta Edu Set to Sue BBC Over Defamation, Seeks Millions in Damages

Dr. Betta Edu, the recently suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation of Nigeria, is taking legal action against the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) for what she deems defamatory reporting.

This move comes in response to a report by the BBC suggesting that N30 billion was recovered from Edu in an ongoing probe by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The contested article alleged that the EFCC had reclaimed substantial funds and linked 50 bank accounts to Edu as part of a corruption investigation into her activities and the ministry she led. Ojukwu argued that these claims have caused “immeasurable reputational damage” and “psychological trauma” to Edu, stressing that the report was not only false but also lacked evidence and due diligence in its publication.

Ojukwu’s letter to the BBC emphasized the perceived bias in the report, criticizing its tone, content, and the implication of guilt without a trial or evidence. He highlighted the breach of journalistic integrity by not allowing Edu a chance to respond before the article’s publication. Furthermore, Ojukwu emphasized that Edu has not been formally indicted or found guilty of any financial misconduct in relation to her role as minister.

The legal representation of Edu is now seeking $50 million in compensation from the BBC for the alleged defamation, aiming to address the personal and professional toll the publication has taken on her.