Pastor Helen Ukpabio Demands N200 Billion in Defamation Suit Against Singer Bloody Civilian

Image: DP

Renowned Nigerian pastor and founder of Liberty Gospel Church, Helen Ukpabio, has filed a N200 billion defamation suit against singer Bloody Civilian over accusations made on social media.

The controversy began after Bloody Civilian, in a post celebrating Ukpabio’s 60th birthday on X (formerly Twitter), alleged that the pastor had "literally made people burn their children alive." The singer also shared a documentary criticizing Ukpabio’s controversial methods and ideology.

See the post below:

She literally made people burn their children alive. https://t.co/g6tfBOsKPn

— BLOODY CIVILIAN (@bloody__civ) November 22, 2024

Through her legal representatives, Ukpabio condemned the accusations as “reckless, satanic, and libellous.” In addition to the N200 billion demand for damages—citing distress, trauma, and anguish—Ukpabio also requested a public apology from the singer.

Ukpabio’s daughter, Imabong, had earlier issued an ultimatum, giving Bloody Civilian five hours to delete the post or face legal action.

See the post below:

I give you the next five hours to take this down or I will educate you in court! https://t.co/LQqMjVgAQj

— Ima in the city (@ima_Elijah) November 22, 2024

Rather than retract her statement, Bloody Civilian responded with humor, posting:

“Guys, they just sued me for 200 billion naira. This December I will be adding the following to my services: standup comedy, weddings, and settling disputes.”

See below:

Guys they just sued me for 200 billion naira. This December I will be adding the following to my services: pic.twitter.com/egenPKGb5z

— BLOODY CIVILIAN (@bloody__civ) November 23, 2024

The singer’s lighthearted reaction has sparked a social media frenzy, with fans and followers split between supporting her boldness and urging caution regarding the legal implications.

The case has reignited discussions about freedom of speech, the responsibility of public figures, and the potential dangers of defamatory statements on social media. Bloody Civilian’s accusations stem from longstanding criticisms of Ukpabio’s past teachings and practices, which some human rights groups have also scrutinized.

As this legal battle unfolds, all eyes will be on the courts to determine the outcome of this high-profile defamation suit.

Source: DP

#PastorHelenUkpabio
#BloodyCivilian