The N5 billion libel suit instituted by the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in charge of Akwa-Ibom State, Mr. Mike Igini, against former spokesman of the Edo State All Progressives Congress (APC) Media Campaign Council in the September 19 Governorship election, John Mayaki, stalled on Wednesday after both parties moved to settle out of court.
Igini had instituted the suit following publications which alleged that he had a secret meeting with Governor Godwin Obaseki with a plot to rig the September 19, 2020 Governorship election.
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He described the allegation as malicious, reckless, mischievous and with intent to destroy his hard-earned reputation.
Igini demanded for a full page unreserved apology to be published in every edition of the Punch Newspapers, Tribune, Guardian and the Sun Newspapers for seven consecutive times commencing not later than seven days after the judgment of the case.
Joined in the suit are Vanguard Media Limited, the African Newspaper of Nigeria Plc, the publisher of the Nigeria Tribune and the Sun Publishing Limited as co-defendants.
When the case came up on Wednesday, Counsel to Mayaki, Austin Osarenkhoe, informed the court that his client has reached the plaintiff (Mr. Igini) to opt for settlement.
He therefore, asked the court for time to enable the parties settle the matter out of court.
Igini’s Counsel, Christian Omatsone, did not oppose the oral application.
The presiding Judge, Justice V. O Oviawe adjourned the suit to June 21, for a report of settlement.
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