Ondo Finance Commissioner Sues APC Elders for Libel

Omowunmi Isaac, the Ondo State Commissioner for Finance, has initiated a libel lawsuit against Adekola Olawoye, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), and 34 other elders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the state High Court. The case, overseen by Justice Yemi Fasanmi, arises from a publication that Isaac claims is defamatory and damaging to her reputation.

Olawoye stated that the defendants appeared in court to challenge the jurisdiction of the court but could not proceed due to Isaac's application to amend her court processes. The dispute originated from a letter Olawoye sent to the APC National Chairman regarding local party developments.

Isaac's counsel, Olaoluwa Imoru, contends that the publication, which referred to her as “the governor’s mummy,” falsely implied she had undue influence over Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa. Isaac seeks a declaration of defamation, damages, and a retraction.

The matter is adjourned to October 8, 2026, for further proceedings.