Okai Seeks N2bn from Kogi Aide Over Defamatory Claims

Chief Austin Usman Okai has demanded N2bn in compensation from Promise Emmanuel, the Kogi State Government’s Senior Special Assistant on Cybercrime, due to alleged defamatory social media posts. The demand, articulated in a letter dated Friday and signed by Jerry Mendos Maikano of Marshal Attorneys, calls for a retraction of the posts, a public apology, and the compensation amount.

The posts, made by Emmanuel, who allegedly operates under the pseudonym “Kogi Rebel,” on September 20 and 21, 2026, claimed that Okai recorded and sold an audio conversation involving Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan for hundreds of millions of naira, leading to his acquisition of a Mercedes-Benz and a 2025 Toyota Camry. Okai's lawyers argue that these allegations are unfounded and have caused significant reputational damage, public criticism, and emotional distress.

They also questioned the accuracy of the vehicle valuations mentioned in the posts. The letter cites Nigerian judicial authorities on defamation and emphasizes the importance of Okai’s reputation as an activist, politician, community leader, and philanthropist.