Judy Austin Takes Rita Edochie to Court Over ₦1 Billion Defamation Claim

(Judy Austin, Rita Edochie. Photo by Newsunplug)

Actress Judy Austin has initiated a defamation lawsuit against veteran performer Rita Edochie before the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja, seeking ₦1 billion in damages.

Austin publicised the development through her verified Instagram account, sharing a copy of the writ of summons filed against Edochie, which lists Austin as claimant and Edochie as defendant.

The suit claims ₦1 billion as general damages for alleged defamation. Austin additionally requests that the court compel Edochie to publish a comprehensive and unreserved retraction and apology in at least two widely distributed national newspapers and across her social media platforms.

She is seeking a perpetual injunction restraining Edochie, her representatives and associates from further publishing or disseminating the alleged defamatory statements against her.

The claimant seeks court orders directing removal of the allegedly defamatory statements from all online platforms maintained by Edochie.

Austin is also demanding ₦50 million as costs incurred in prosecuting the suit and 10 per cent post-judgment interest on the judgment sum until final settlement.

The court filing was prepared by Austin’s legal representatives, including Anozie Obinnaya Obi, SAN, alongside additional counsel.

Austin accompanied her social media post with the statement “Enough is enough!” The writ requires Edochie to appear in court within the timeframe specified in the legal document following service.