A High Court sitting in Warri, Delta State has awarded the sum of five Million Naira as compensation in a case of libel in favor of Justice Godwin Ejaeta Gbemre (rtd).

The presiding Judge, Hon. Justice Roli Daibo Harriman gave the ruling on Friday 8th, May 2020.

Pursuant to a suit No W/76/2018. Filed by Justice Godwin Ejaeta Gbemre against Mr Zik Gbemre for libel and defamation of character.

The court ruled that the defendant clearly showed in his pleadings, evidence and exhibits tendered that he was driven by malice. He threatened (blackmailed) the claimant at every turn. The defendant was relentless. He was determined to put an end to the perceived power of the claimant to influence others. His actions were driven by his desire to be in control of the affairs of his community and he was prepared to destroy anyone, anything in his path to achieve that goal,even if it meant destroying the reputation and career of his first cousin, BarristerNG reports.

Consequently the claimant is entitled to judgement as follows :-

(a) The defendant is to write a letter of apology to the claimant through his counsel within 14 day’s hereof.

(b) The defendant is to publish a reaction of his offending publication and his apology by filling same at the Registry of the high Court of Justice, Warri Judicial Division within 14 days hereof.

(c) The sum of N5. 000.000.00 (Five Million Naira) Only as compensation to the claimant.
(d) Cost of N50, 000. 00 (Fifty Thousand Naira Only.