Defamation case: Gov Sule reverses decision to sue Benue varsity lecturer

Nasarawa State governor, Abdullahi Sule, has rescinded his decision to sue Benue varsity don, Prof. Zachary Gundu, for defamation.

The decision follows the intervention of the Tor Tiv, HRM James Ayatse. Governor Sule has resolved not to proceed with legal action against Prof. Zachary Gundu, leader of Tiv Professionals, over alleged defamation and libellous comments.

Prof. Gundu, during a recent town hall meeting organised by NewsCentral TV, accused Governor Sule of providing a safe haven for “Fulani” terrorists and handing foreigners the land of his citizens.

Governor Sule had considered the comments offensive and demanded a retraction and apology, warning that he would otherwise seek redress in court.

His counsel, Ahmed Raji, SAN, said the comments by Prof. Gundu described Gov. Sule “as a sympathiser, protector, and enabler of the armed bandits who have wreaked havoc on Benue State.”

However, Prof. Gundu, through his counsel, Chief Sebastine Hon, SAN, rebuffed the Nasarawa governor, asking him to go to court.

The Mzough U Tiv (MUT), in a statement issued by its President General, Chief CP Iorbee Ihagh (retd), appealed to “all Tiv sons and daughters, to sheath their swords and cease from making further comments on the matter in the interest of peace.”

“The intervention by the paramount ruler of the Tiv nation, has led to a resolution of the matter and a pledge by HE Engr Sule, not to go ahead with his intention to seek legal redress in a court of law, against Prof Gundu, over the matter.

“Therefore, following the intervention of the Tor Tiv, HRM, Prof James Iorzua Ayatse, and the willingness of HE Engr A.A. Sule, to withdraw his plan to go to court over the matter, I wish to appeal to all Tiv sons and daughters, to sheath their swords and cease from making further comments on the matter, in the interest of peace.”

Chief Ihagh commended the Nasarawa governor for what he described as his “peaceful disposition and agreeing to discontinue the matter, so that peace will prevail.”

Source: Daily Post Nigeria | Read Full Story…