N1b libel suit: court fixes Feb.7 to hear Apostle Suleiman’s motion

Hearing of a motion for interlocutory injunction filed by Apostle Johnson Suleiman against Ms Stepahie Otobo and an online news platform, Saharareporters has been fixed by a Lagos High Court, Ikeja.

Justice Adedayo Oyebanji, yesterday adjourned the suit till February 7, 2018, for hearing of the motion by the claimant.

Apostle Suleman had dragged the two defendants before the court over allegation that his reputation was damaged through claims by Ms Otobo that they were involved in a romantic relationship.

The claim by Ms Otobo was first published in Saharareporters.

But the duo of Ms Otobo and Saharareporters failed to show up yesterday at the Court to defend the N1billion libel suit instituted against them by the man of God.

At Thursday’s proceedings, Apostle Suleiman who was represented by E.L. Akpofure SAN, told the court that they had a motion for interlocutory injunction which was already ripe for hearing.

“My Lord our motion is very ripe for hearing but sadly, the defendant is not in court neither is she represented.

“The defendant has refused to enter appearance in this matter despite the fact that she has been duly served with hearing notices. I would have said that My Lord should hear the motion but I suggest that things be done the right way and another hearing notice be re-issued to the defendant,” Akpofure said.

After listening to Akpofure’s submissions, Justice Oyebanji noted that though the defendant was not represented in court, another hearing notice would be issued.

Peter Fowoyo