Former Kaduna Central senator, Shehu Sani, has defended the decision of billionaire industrialist Aliko Dangote to seek legal redress over alleged defamatory remarks, saying the business mogul is entitled to the same rights as any Nigerian citizen.
Sani’s comment followed reports that Dangote, through his legal team, issued a seven-day ultimatum to Kaduna-based businessman Kailani Mohammed to withdraw and apologise for statements deemed libellous, or face a N100 billion lawsuit.
The disputed remarks were reportedly made by Mohammed during a Trust TV interview on December 17, where he spoke about Dangote’s petition to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) against Dr Farouk Ahmed, the former chief executive officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).
Since the ultimatum became public, the development has sparked debate online, with some social media users accusing Dangote of attempting to suppress freedom of expression.
Reacting to the criticism, Sani took to his Facebook page to back the billionaire’s stance, insisting that access to the courts is a fundamental right.
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“Every citizen has the right to sue another citizen for defamation,” the former lawmaker wrote.
He stressed that Dangote’s status as Africa’s richest man does not strip him of legal protections available to all Nigerians, adding that anyone who feels wronged by false or damaging claims is free to pursue justice through lawful means.
According to him, “Dangote too has the right. It’s very important that before you allege or malign someone you don’t like, you have to be armed with facts and evidence to prove your claims”.
“It’s sweet to post on Social media but when directing your attack on someone, always be armed with facts. If you look at the way senior lawyers speak or post their messages on social media, you will see them being very calculated and surgical in their ways.
“When you are sued for defamation, lawyers will charge you millions for defence. Those who “liked” your post will never be in court with you nor contribute financially to get you out. A defamation case in court can last many years draining your resources and time”, he said.
