Vice presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has taken legal action against Primate Babatunde Elijah Ayodele over alleged defamatory comments made against him.
In a letter dated June 11, 2026, and signed by Magaji Mato Ibrahim SAN of Magaji Mato Ibrahim SAN & Co., Kwankwaso’s legal team accused the cleric of making false, malicious and damaging statements during a church gathering that was broadcast live and later circulated on social media and various news platforms.
The cleric allegedly said: “KWANKWASO IS A FAKE TO OBI, KWANKWASO WILL BETRAY YOU. KWANKWASO HAS BEEN PAID TO BE VICE PRESIDENT TO OBI.”
The lawyers said the comments were directed at Kwankwaso, who is the running mate to Peter Obi under the NDC platform.
They argued that the statements questioned his credibility, sincerity and political integrity, while portraying him negatively before members of the public.
According to the legal team, the remarks were capable of damaging the reputation Kwankwaso had built through his years in public service, including his time as governor of Kano State, minister, senator and presidential candidate.
The lawyers further claimed that the comments could create division within the NDC and among supporters of the party.
As part of their demands, they asked Primate Ayodele to publish a full retraction and apology within 24 hours.
They also insisted that the apology should appear on all platforms where the alleged defamatory statements gained attention and should receive the same level of visibility.
Kwankwaso’s lawyers also requested a written undertaking from the cleric, assuring that he would no longer publish or repeat any content considered defamatory against their client.
They warned that if the demands are ignored, legal proceedings would be filed without further notice.
The letter stated that Kwankwaso is prepared to seek damages amounting to N10 billion, in addition to the cost of the lawsuit and any other relief the court may deem fit to grant.
