Dr. Betta Edu, the suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, is considering legal action against the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) over what she claims are defamatory remarks.
In a letter addressed to BBC’s Abuja and London offices by her counsel, Chikaosolu Ojukwu (SAN), Edu disputes BBC’s report alleging the retrieval of N30 billion from her during an ongoing probe by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Edu’s lawyer demands a retraction and public apology from BBC within 48 hours, asserting that the false publication has damaged Edu’s reputation. Additionally, Edu seeks $50 million in compensation from the UK-based media outlet.
Related News
The letter expresses concern over BBC’s article, titled “Betta Edu Probe: Nigeria Recover $24m in Poverty Minister Investigation- EFCC,” which implies Edu’s involvement in corruption without evidence. The letter insists on Edu’s presumption of innocence and criticizes BBC’s lack of fairness and journalistic integrity in reporting.
Edu maintains her innocence, emphasizing that she has not been indicted or found guilty of any financial wrongdoing related to her ministry. She condemns BBC’s article for causing reputational damage and psychological distress.
