Bloody Civilian bags N200bn lawsuit over alleged defamation of Helen Ukpabio

Nigerian singer and activist Bloody Civilian has been hit with a staggering ₦200 billion lawsuit filed by controversial preacher Lady Apostle Helen Ukpabio and her daughter, Imaobong Elijah Ukpabio. The legal action arises from alleged defamatory remarks made by the artist on X (formerly Twitter).

The dispute stems from Bloody Civilian's responses to a tweet celebrating Ukpabio’s 60th birthday on November 22, 2024. User @onejoblessboy posted a photo of Ukpabio with the caption, “Pastor Helen Ukpabio turns 60 today.” In a series of tweets, Bloody Civilian accused the preacher of promoting harmful practices, referencing her controversial teachings on witchcraft and allegations of child abuse.

Among the statements cited in the lawsuit were:

“She literally made people burn their children alive.”

“See she’s gotten banned from the UK for her atrocities but Nigerians love atrocities.”

“We were kids when this happened so that’s why no one remembers she did so much evil.”

The lawsuit, described by Ukpabio’s legal team as addressing “reckless, satanic, and libelous” claims, demands a public apology and ₦200 billion in damages for reputational harm.

Helen Ukpabio, founder of Liberty Gospel Church, has long been a polarizing figure, with critics accusing her of promoting stigmatization of children and harmful beliefs. Supporters, however, view her as a staunch defender of Christian values.

Bloody Civilian, known for her outspokenness, reacted with a mix of shock and humor, tweeting, “Guys, they just sued me for 200 billion naira. This December, I’ll be adding the following to my services: Weddings (preferably Yoruba), Naming ceremonies (no twins), Stand-up comedy, Club hosting, Birthday parties (no Gen Z), Settling family disputes (no Benin people).”

The unfolding legal battle has sparked intense public discourse, with opinions sharply divided between support for Bloody Civilian’s activism and condemnation of her remarks.