Otti Seeks N5 Billion from Blogger Over ‘Defamatory’ Claim of Hotel Acquisitions in Abia
Otti Seeks N5 Billion from Blogger Over ‘Defamatory’ Claim of Hotel Acquisitions in Abia: Abia State Governor Alex Otti has demanded a retraction, an apology, and a compensation of N5 billion
from blogger Sir Don Ubani due to what his legal team described as a “satanic and defamatory” article. The publication allegedly linked Otti to the acquisition of two hotels in Umuahia,
the capital of Abia State. This request was formally communicated in a letter from Otti’s lawyer, Dr. Sonny Ajala, SAN of Deeplaw Associates, on October 2, 2024, which was later reviewed by THE WHISTLER.
The controversial article, published on September 26, 2024, under the title “Governor Alexander Otti Of Abia State Should Be Clapped For,” suggested that the governor had purchased Comfort
Hotel and Luxurious Maget Hotel in Umuahia. It further claimed that Otti had
engaged in “wanton land grabbing” in Umuehim and Umuguru villages within the Ehi Na Uguru Autonomous Community, located in the Isialangwa South Local Government Area.
The article remarked on the supposed renovations of Comfort Hotel and
described the Luxurious Maget Hotel as a notable asset of the governor.
It concluded by questioning the extent of Otti’s accomplishments in these communities,
hinting that he might not be living up to his leadership potential. However,
Otti’s legal representatives vehemently denied these claims, asserting that
the governor has no connection to either hotel, dismissing the assertions as false and defamatory.
The lawyers argued that the publication aimed to tarnish the governor’s
reputation among important groups, including stakeholders in the banking sector,
constituents, the leadership of the Labour Party, and the broader public.
To rectify the situation, Otti is insisting that Ubani issue a written apology
on his Facebook page and retract the statements in notable newspapers
such as Thisday, Punch, The Nation, and National Ambassador.
Otti has given Ubani a deadline of seven days to comply with these demands,
warning of potential legal action if he fails to do so.