Pat Utomi Threatens N500bn Lawsuit Against Presidential Aide Bayo Onanuga

Renowned political economist Professor Pat Utomi has announced his intention to file a N500 billion lawsuit against Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to President Bola Tinubu. The move comes in response to Onanuga’s recent allegations linking Utomi to a series of planned anti-government protests.

Onanuga accused Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and his supporters, including Utomi, of organizing nationwide protests scheduled for August. These protests aim to address issues such as hunger, naira devaluation, and economic hardship in Nigeria.

In a statement released on Monday, Utomi, a prominent Labour Party member, vehemently denied the accusations, stating he has been out of the country for an extended period. He called on Onanuga to either retract his statement or provide evidence to support his claims.

“If there is no evidence of Mr. Onanuga’s false assertion, I will assume it reasonable that the object is to water the ground for false treasonable felony charges that can result in the claim of one’s life,” Utomi stated. “I intend to therefore proceed to the international criminal and other human rights courts if a reasonable explanation is not forthcoming.”

Utomi further warned that he would seek N500 billion in damages for what he described as “fake news, hate speech and intent to procure State murder of an innocent citizen.” He expressed concerns about the fairness of the judicial process in Nigeria and indicated a willingness to seek justice through international bodies if necessary.