The Aareonakakanfo of Yorubaland, Gani Adams, has filed a N5 billion lawsuit against Yoruba Nation activist Chief Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Igboho, at an Oyo State High Court in Ibadan. Adams is accusing Igboho of unlawfully recording and publicly sharing a private telephone conversation, which he claims was done without his consent.
In the suit, marked M/1006/2024 and submitted on October 15, Adams seeks enforcement of his fundamental rights, contending that the unauthorized recording and release of his private conversation have caused him significant harm, especially in his capacity as the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland.
Adams’ legal filing states: “It is unlawful, illegal, and unconstitutional for anyone to surreptitiously record a private telephone conversation between other persons without the consent and authority of the parties involved.” He further asserts that Igboho’s actions are a “malicious and egregious violation” of his right to privacy, adding that it is a severe affront to his standing and reputation.
The lawsuit also includes a demand for N5 billion in general and exemplary damages for the alleged “reckless breach” of Adams’ constitutionally protected rights.
Adams described the incident in a supporting affidavit, revealing that in April 2024, Igboho appeared on social media with claims of possessing a recorded conversation between Adams and another individual, Nurudeen Banjo, based in the United States. Since then, Adams alleges, Igboho has made “malicious attacks” in both traditional and social media, accusing Adams of various defamatory actions.
“The public exposure of my private conversation, covertly recorded and maliciously published by the respondent without my knowledge, consent, or authority, has not only violated my rights but caused me serious embarrassment among numerous Nigerians,” Adams stated.
This case highlights the tension between the two prominent Yoruba figures, as Adams seeks redress for what he terms a gross violation of his privacy and dignity. The court is expected to address the matter in the coming weeks.
