A Federal Capital Territory High Court sitting in Abuja has scheduled January 19 for the hearing of a high-profile defamation suit instituted by the Governor of Nasarawa State, Abdullahi Sule, against the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Mkar, Gboko, Benue State, Professor Zachary Gundu.
The matter, presided over by Justice Hamza Muazu, was adjourned following a request by counsel to the governor, who sought additional time to respond to three pending applications filed by the defendant.
Governor Sule is demanding ₦100.5 billion in damages, alleging that Professor Gundu made defamatory remarks accusing him of offering refuge to Fulani herdsmen allegedly responsible for violent attacks on communities in Benue State. The alleged statements were reportedly made on July 10, 2025.
During the proceedings, counsel to the defendant, Mr. Sebastine Hon, SAN, strongly opposed the adjournment request, arguing that the claimant had ample time to respond, noting that the applications had been before the court since November last year.
Hon further informed the court of his intention to withdraw two of the pending applications, explaining that the move was intended to eliminate procedural hurdles and pave the way for the court to address the substantive issues in the suit.
After listening to submissions from both parties, Justice Muazu granted the adjournment and fixed January 19 for the hearing of the substantive case.
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