This is the painful reality of a SLAPP suit—a Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation. The goal isn’t courtroom victory. It’s punishment through endless paperwork, travel, and expense.
Today, Sonala Olumhense, one of Nigeria’s most respected columnists, faces exactly this. He wrote thoughtfully about politicians misusing public funds. Now someone with statehouse connections and deep pockets has sued him—not in Abuja, but in a faraway state court. It’s a classic intimidation tactic: file far from home, maximum suffering.
We’ve watched this pattern repeat:
Godswill Akpabio sued journalists in 2024 over Senate contract reporting. The case quietly disappeared.
Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan filed defamation suits against numerous critics. Most were abandoned.
Jones Abiri was jailed for exposing oil theft.
Agba Jalingo was dragged across Cross River State for questioning power spending.
These aren’t genuine legal disputes. When judges ask for evidence—prove the lies, prove the damage—there’s silence. Empty files.
Sonala’s Position is Legally Strong
His defence rests on solid ground:
1. Constitutional Protection
Section 39 guarantees freedom of expression. This isn’t private gossip—it’s public interest journalism.
2. Public Interest Defence
Reporting on government spending serves every Nigerian. Courts increasingly recognize this.
3. No Evidence Offered
The plaintiff must prove falsehood and actual harm. So far, there’s nothing substantial.
4. Wrong Court Chosen
Filing in a distant state smells of forum shopping—a tactic judges frown upon.
Experienced judges see through these cases and dismiss them quickly.
The Real Dangers Sonala Faces
Financial Drain: Lawyer fees plus cross-state travel can bankrupt anyone
Criminal Defamation Threat: Possible arrest under old laws
Cybercrime Act Shadow: Digital speech weaponized against critics
Public Misunderstanding: Many assume “lawsuit = guilty”
A Clear Action Plan for Nigerian Media
I respectfully urge our media institutions to act decisively:
Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ): Issue a clear statement today. Mobilize legal support.
Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE): Present a united editorial voice across all platforms.
SERAP: File supporting legal documents highlighting constitutional violations.
IPI Nigeria & Media Rights Agenda: Bring deserved international attention.
Recommended Battle Plan: Sonala issues measured public statement. NUJ, NGE, SERAP speak as one. Legal motion for dismissal filed. Case dismissed.
Words to Three Parties :
– To Sonala Olumhense: Brother, your columns brought clarity when confusion reigned. Your colleagues stand ready.
– To Nigerian media: If Sonala falls today, no journalist is safe tomorrow. This is our shared fight.
– To those behind the lawsuit: Nigerians remember who uses courts to punish journalists for doing their duty.
Truth-telling has always carried a cost. Sonala has paid in ink and integrity. Now we pay in solidarity. Sonala Olumhense didn’t choose this battle, but he represents all who speak for the public good. When we defend him, we defend every Nigerian’s right to know.
Ifeanyi Igwebike Mbanefo lives in Montreal, Canada
