Amanze Chinonye
The Federal Capital Territory High Court sitting at Life Camp, Abuja, has granted an interim injunction restraining activist Omoyele Sowore and online platform Sahara Reporters from further publishing content deemed defamatory against the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.
The order was granted by Justice J.O.E. Adeyemi-Ajayi on February 18, 2026, following an ex parte application filed by the IGP through his counsel, Chief Ayotunde Ogunleye, SAN.
According to court documents, the injunction restrains Sowore, Sahara Reporters, their agents, privies and associates from publishing or causing to be published any material considered defamatory or injurious to the reputation of the IGP, his office, and members of his family, pending the hearing and determination of a motion on notice.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThe suit stems from allegations published by Sahara Reporters linking the IGP’s son, Victor Egbetokun, to the receipt of ₦100 million allegedly drawn from Anambra State security votes. The claimant argued that the report was false, malicious and damaging to his reputation and that of his family.
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The interim order is to remain in force pending further proceedings in the substantive suit. The court subsequently adjourned the matter to April 14, 2026, for hearing of the motion on notice, where parties are expected to present their arguments.
Reacting to the development, the Nigeria Police Force described the ruling as a necessary legal step to curb what it called “defamatory and baseless allegations” against the leadership of the Force.
The case marks the latest legal confrontation between the police chief and Sowore, who has been involved in previous disputes with law enforcement authorities over public criticisms and related allegations.
Further proceedings are expected to determine whether the interim injunction will be sustained or vacated after hearing from all parties.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
