Tonye Cole has sued FCT Minister Nyesom Wike for N40 billion over alleged defamation.
He claims Wike made damaging false remarks about him during a live television interview.
Tonye Patrick Cole, the 2023 governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, has filed a N40 billion lawsuit against the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, over alleged defamation.
Cole claimed that Wike made false and damaging comments about him during a live interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on September 18, 2025. In the program, Wike accused him of stealing state funds, selling gas assets worth $308 million, and taking over Olympia Hotel.
Cole described the claims as false and intended to paint him as corrupt before millions of viewers. He said the statements damaged the reputation he built over many years in business, philanthropy, and public service.
Human rights lawyer, Barrister Deji Adeyanju, is appearing as a witness for Cole. He told the court that he watched the interview live and was shocked by the “reckless” nature of Wike’s allegations. Adeyanju also criticized Channels Television for airing unverified claims, saying such actions weaken public trust in responsible journalism.
Cole, co-founder and former Group Executive Director of Sahara Group, told the court that the broadcast caused him emotional and professional harm. His lawyers said the remarks affected his international partnerships, with some associates suspending collaborations until the matter is resolved.
He is demanding N40 billion in damages, a public apology, and an order stopping further publication or rebroadcast of the remarks.
Cole, through his legal team, said the case is not about politics but about protecting truth and accountability in public communication.
