Judy Austin’s Defamation Case Against Rita Edochie: Where It Stands Before November 24
Actress Judy Austin is suing fellow actress Rita Edochie for alleged defamation. The case returns to court on November 24, 2026.
Key facts
Austin filed the suit in August 2026 at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. She is asking for N1 billion in general damages and N50 million in costs, plus a retraction and apology in two national newspapers and on social media, removal of the posts, and an order stopping further statements.
She filed a separate suit against her former husband, Emmanuel Obasi. Together the two cases seek over N2 billion.
At the September 29 hearing, the matters were adjourned to November 24 after Obasi’s lawyer challenged the court’s jurisdiction.
Edochie told journalists she believes the suit is meant to silence her. She said her posts were not aimed only at Austin.
Status
The court has not ruled that anyone defamed anyone, and no damages have been awarded.
Sources: Premium Times, Eelive, Within Nigeria (October 2, 2026).
Updated: November 10, 2026, 11:23AM WAT