Justice Adama Iyayi-Lamikanra of Rivers State High Court 1 has adjourned hearing in the suit by ex-Governor Peter Odili against All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain Dakuku Peterside till October 27.
In the suit before Justice Lamikanra, state chief judge, the ex-governor is demanding N6 billion damages for alleged defamation in an alleged statement by Peterside at a media briefing.
It was alleged the defendant after Wike’s Supreme Court victory, alleged that Wike, during a thanksgiving service, said Odili helped him to secure the court victory.
Odili noted that what Peterside said was false and malicious because Wike did not make such a statement.
The former governor accused Dakuku of twisting and misrepresenting what the governor said.
Lawyers to the complainant include Joseph Ogwu, Donald Atuegu, Akinola Afolabi and Kanu Agabi (SAN), the lead counsel.
The defendant and his lawyers were absent.
The court, which started proceedings at 9:07 am, adopted the witness statement of complaint after his lead counsel examined the document.
Counsel to the complainant Mr. Agabi told the judge there was proof of service on Peterside.
In the absence of the defendant, Justice Lamikanra adjourned till October 27.
Addressing reporters, Agabi said: “We sued for libel. We called our first witness. We adjourned for cross-examination till October 27. We felt defamed by their (defendants’) publication and we are here to vindicate ourselves.
“You could see the defendants were not in court, but they have been served, they were properly served.”