The High Court of Cross River State, sitting in Calabar, has heard extensive testimony in the N200 billion libel suit filed by Helen Ukpabio and her daughter against the singer Bloody Civilian. The case centers on allegations of witchcraft-related abuses. Justice Ukpai Ibitham adjourned the matter to July 6 and 7 for continuation of hearing after arguments from both parties' counsel.
Witness Testimony
A human rights advocate and religious studies scholar, Leo Igwe, testified for the defense. He alleged that Ukpabio's teachings, films, and ministry activities contributed to witchcraft accusations and abuses against vulnerable persons, especially children. Igwe told the court that he had spent nearly three decades researching and campaigning against witchcraft accusations across Africa. He added that some evangelical teachings fuel fear, suspicion, and violence against persons accused of witchcraft.
Igwe referenced Ukpabio's film End of the Wicked and several church programs centered on deliverance from witchcraft. He argued that such messages reinforced harmful stereotypes associated with Cross River and Akwa Ibom states. The witness also recalled an incident in 2009 when he organized a public enlightenment program in Calabar against witchcraft accusations. He alleged that members of Liberty Gospel Church disrupted the event and assaulted him.
According to Igwe, public criticism of religious teachings linked to alleged witch-hunting practices should not be interpreted as defamation but as social advocacy against harmful beliefs and abuses.
Legal Arguments
At the close of the testimony, counsel to the defendant, James Ibor, urged the court to dismiss the suit. However, counsel to the claimants, Victor Ukutt, opposed the application, arguing that there was no plea before the court challenging the witness's evidence.
Background of the Case
Ukpabio and her daughter instituted the suit against Bloody Civilian, whose real name is Emoseh Khamofu, over comments posted on X (formerly Twitter) in November 2024. The claimants alleged that the singer falsely accused Ukpabio of promoting violence against children labeled as witches. They described these claims as malicious and defamatory.
Among the reliefs sought are public retractions and apologies in national newspapers, deletion of the posts from social media platforms, and N200 billion in damages for alleged injury to their reputation and public image.
