Edo Governor Monday Okpebholo Demands ₦25 Billion From PDP Chairman Anthony Aziegbemi Over Alleged Defamation

Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has called on PDP state chairman Dr. Anthony Aziegbemi to pay ₦25 billion in damages over alleged defamation and libel.

The governor is also demanding a public apology to be published in three national newspapers. The demands were made in a letter dated 22 December 2025, addressed to Aziegbemi and signed by Okpebholo’s lawyer, R.I.D. Okezie, Esq.

The letter, titled “Demand for damages and apologies for defamation of the character of the Executive Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo,” accused the PDP chairman of making statements that undermined the governor’s reputation.

Okpebholo has given Aziegbemi a seven-day ultimatum to pay the ₦25 billion and issue the retraction. The claims relate to a press release allegedly issued by Aziegbemi on 7 January 2025, in his role as factional chairman of the Edo State PDP Caretaker Committee.

The release, reportedly circulated widely in print and online media, is said to have contained remarks that disparaged the governor and the office he holds. The letter further noted that the publication mocked the governor’s public image, which he has cultivated over the years, including during his tenure as a senator in the National Assembly.