Eminent Nigerians, including the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, governors, Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Prof Nentawe Yilwatda, and monarchs, have called for unity, peace, and sustained prayers for national development as Muslims celebrate Eid-el-Fitr, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, on Wednesday declared Friday as Eid and the first day of the new month.

As a mark of the end of the Holy Month, Muslims all over the world will troop to prayer grounds to celebrate Eid-el-Fitr.

Congratulating Muslims on the successful completion of the fast, Abbas expressed optimism that their sacrifices and prayers would usher in a brighter future for the country.

In a Sallah message signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Krishi, Abbas said, “Divine intervention, through prayers, remains a major reason for the country’s unity, peace, and stability.”

He added, “Incidentally, our Christian brothers and sisters are also observing the Lent period concurrently with their Muslim counterparts.

“This is a divine arrangement for us to redouble our efforts in prayers and dedication to our Creator. It is also a reminder that we are one people united by a common good.”

He urged Muslims to sustain the virtues of piety, charity, and selflessness imbibed during Ramadan, stressing that Nigerians must continue to pray for a better society.

In a goodwill message on Thursday, Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Yahaya, called on Muslims and all citizens to sustain the spirit of devotion, sacrifice and supplication cultivated during the holy month of Ramadan.

The governor emphasised that Eid-el-Fitr is not only a time of celebration but also a moment for deep reflection, urging the faithful to translate the lessons of the sacred month into everyday conduct.

“As we celebrate the Eid-el-Fitr festival, I wish to admonish us to learn from the good lessons of Ramadan, which connote piety, obedience and selflessness.

We must all imbibe the tenets of Islam, which promote peace, tolerance, modesty and love,” the governor stated.

Similarly, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun described Ramadan as a sacred period of reflection, discipline, and compassion, urging Muslims to uphold its lessons beyond the fasting period.

In a statement issued in Abeokuta on Thursday, Abiodun described Ramadan as a sacred period marked by deep reflection, devotion, self-discipline, and renewed commitment to the service of Almighty Allah and humanity.

“As our Muslim brothers and sisters celebrate Eid-el-Fitr, we join them in gratitude to Almighty Allah for granting the grace to witness the end of this blessed month,” he said.

In Oyo State, Governor Seyi Makinde urged the faithful to seek divine guidance and remain security-conscious during the festivities.

Makinde, in a statement released by his Special Adviser on Media, Sulaimon Olarenwaju, charged the Muslim faithful to use the opportunity presented by the Eid-el-Fitri to seek God’s face and guidance, and to pray for the leadership of the state and  Nigeria.

“Let me equally use this occasion to urge you (Muslim faithful) to be observant and cautious during the festivities, ensuring that you pay close attention to your environments and report any suspicious movement or activity to appropriate security agencies,” the governor urged.

Also, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State called on Nigerians to sustain the spirit of unity, sacrifice, and compassion demonstrated during Ramadan.

“As we mark this special day, may the enduring lessons of brotherhood and shared humanity usher in a new season of unity and progress in our country,” he said.

Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, emphasised peaceful coexistence and tolerance, noting that Ramadan promotes reflection and renewed faith.

Oborevwori, in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, in Asaba, lauded Muslims for their devotion, sacrifice, and commitment to the spiritual values of Islam, as demonstrated during the period of fasting and prayer.

The governor noted that Ramadan represents a period of deep reflection, self-discipline, compassion, and renewed faith, urging Muslims to sustain these virtues beyond the holy month for the overall good of society.

Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, called on residents of the state to embrace unity, compassion, and vigilance.

Mohammed, in a statement issued on Thursday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mukhtar Gidado, extended warm felicitations to the Muslim Ummah in Bauchi State, across Nigeria, and around the world.

“True success lies not only in observing Ramadan but in embodying its teachings throughout the year,” the governor stated, encouraging continued support for the underprivileged and vulnerable members of society.

Katsina State Governor, Mallam Dikko Radda, called for continued unity and compassion as the Muslim Ummah celebrate 2026 Eid-el-Fitr.

“As we celebrate this joyous occasion, I urge all Muslims to uphold the virtues of patience, compassion, and self-discipline cultivated during Ramadan,” Radda said.

Similarly, the Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, called for unity and peaceful coexistence, urging citizens to work collectively towards national development.

“I heartily rejoice with the Muslim Ummah on this special occasion, which reminds us of the virtues of sacrifice and total submission to the will of God Almighty.

“As you celebrate, I encourage everyone to reflect on the values of love, charity, and selflessness, and to work collectively towards building a more united, peaceful, and prosperous Plateau State,” he stated.

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, appealed to Muslims to continue praying for Nigeria and for peaceful elections in the state.

Oyebanji admonished Muslims in the state and Nigeria as a whole to continue to pray for the success of President Bola Tinubu to realise the vision of a more prosperous Nigeria under the Renewed Hope Agenda and a country that Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora could be proud of.

Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State also congratulated Muslims on the successful completion of Ramadan and the celebration of Eid-el-Fitr, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to delivering impactful projects and strengthening security across the state.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Communication and Strategy, Abdullahi Idris, the governor expressed gratitude for the opportunity to witness the holy month and lauded the dedication of the faithful to prayers and sacrifice.

The governor reassured citizens of sustained efforts to safeguard lives and property, revealing ongoing collaboration with security agencies.

Similarly, the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, called for tolerance and harmony among Nigerians, urging citizens to cherish diversity and promote peaceful coexistence.

In a goodwill message to commemorate the celebration, Fubara prayed that the occasion bring joy, peace and harmony to all Nigerians irrespective of creed, tribe or tongue.

A former Kaduna State Governor, Ahmed Makarfi, urged Nigerians to sustain the spiritual lessons of Ramadan and intensify prayers for peace and national growth.

He said, “The lessons of Ramadan should lead us into empathy with one another and being our brother’s keeper.”

The All Progressives Congress also extended greetings to Muslims, urging them to carry forward the lessons of Ramadan in promoting unity, justice, and national development.

The party’s National Chairman, Prof Yilwatda, commended President Tinubu for his leadership, urging Nigerians to support ongoing efforts to reposition the country.

The Deputy Governor of Edo State, Dennis Idahosa, also called for unity and peace.

Idahosa noted that the Ramadan period provided an opportunity for deep reflection, renewed faith, and a strengthened commitment to the values of peace, tolerance, and unity.

He urged Muslims to sustain the lessons and spirit of the holy month by continuing to promote love, charity, and peaceful coexistence, stressing that these principles are critical to fostering harmony and driving the collective progress of Edo State and the nation.

A Federal House of Representatives aspirant for the Warri Federal Constituency in 2027, David Omatseye, urged Muslim faithful in Delta State to imbibe “the lessons of the Eid-el-Fitr, which include tolerance, discipline, undying faith, unity and love for the nation and humanity.”

Omatseye joined the Muslim community “in appreciation of Allah for His benevolence and shower of divine favour that issues forth from the cardinal religious observance.”

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, also felicitated Muslims, calling for prayers and moral rebirth in the country.

Alaafin, in his message through the Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, stated that he shuddered to think of a Nigeria of intellectual giants, astute economists and politicians without the relevant moral values as internalised through the socio-cultural orientation and espoused by religion.

Owoade noted that the problems which besiege the country are anchored on non-compliance with or total neglect of moral principles, adding that these have led to the doldrums Nigerians are experiencing in their private and public lives.

The Olukere of Odo Oja Ikere Ekiti, Oba Ayodele Obasoyin, emphasised unity and national progress.

He also sought prayers for a peaceful governorship election held in the state on 20 June.

The monarch called on Muslims and all Nigerians to pray for the peace, progress, and prosperity of the country, stressing the importance of unity in addressing the nation’s economic and security challenges.

Police deploy officers

Meanwhile, security agencies across states announced measures to ensure a peaceful celebration.

In Oyo State, the police said personnel had been deployed across the 33 local government areas, with intensified patrols and surveillance at strategic locations.

Similarly, the Borno State Police Command announced restrictions on tricycle movement during Eid prayers to enhance security, while advising residents to pray at locations close to their homes.

The Delta State Police Command also warned criminal elements to desist from unlawful activities, stating that adequate security arrangements had been put in place.

Senate warns religious leaders

The Senate has warned religious leaders against promoting extremist ideologies, urging them to preach tolerance and desist from actions capable of radicalising their followers, as part of broader efforts to curb terrorism in the country.

The call came from the Leader of the Senate and Chairman of the Senate Ad hoc Committee on National Security Summit, Opeyemi Bamidele, in his Eid-el-Fitr message issued on Thursday.

His remarks followed renewed concerns over Nigeria’s security situation, particularly in the North-East, where a string of attacks had highlighted the persistent threat of violent extremism.

Osun bans political activities at Eid

In Osun State, the Osogbo community banned political activities at Eid prayer grounds to prevent disorder, warning that violators would be arrested.

The instruction was contained in a public service announcement aired on some radio stations in the state and circulated on social media platforms on Thursday.

The announcement was signed by the Asiwaju of Osogbo, Justice Moshood Adeigbe (retd).

The community also placed a ban on drummers within the premises of the praying ground or the display of political party posters.

The decision to ban political activities at the Eid, the community said, was arrived at during a meeting that had in attendance the Chief Imam of Osogbo, representatives of security agencies, representatives of political parties and other groups.

92 Jigawa, Sokoto inmates get pardon

In Jigawa State, Governor Umar Namadi granted pardon to 12 inmates as part of efforts to promote reconciliation and reintegration.

The governor’s pardon was announced in a statement signed by the state Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Bello Fanini, on Thursday.

According to the statement, the pardon followed the recommendation of the Jigawa State Advisory Council of Prerogative of Mercy, as outlined in Section 5(1) of the Advisory Council of Prerogative of Mercy Law, Cap A2, Laws of Jigawa State 2012.

A former Sokoto State Governor, Aliyu Wamakko, also facilitated the release of 80 inmates as part of a Ramadan intervention aimed at decongesting correctional centres.

Speaking on behalf of the former governor, a lawyer, Bashir Ma’azu, said the exercise reflected both compassion and religious obligation.

“This gesture is meant to decongest the correctional centres and also to earn reward from Allah. Assisting the less privileged, especially those in confinement, is highly encouraged in Islam,” he said.

Kano gov, Barau donate

Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, donated relief materials to inmates across the 13 custodial centres in the state as part of activities marking the Eid-el-Fitr celebration.

This was contained in a statement by the Public Relations Officer of the Kano State command of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Musbahu Nassarawa, on Thursday.

“Kano State Government under the leadership of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has donated relief materials to inmates in 13 custodian centres in the State to enable them celebrate the Eid-el-Fitr,” the statement said.

Also, the Deputy President of the Senate, Barau Jibrin, distributed no fewer than 47,280 bags of rice to his constituents in Kano North Senatorial District, as part of his support for the holy month of Ramadan and the forthcoming Sallah celebrations.

Barau flagged off the distribution of the commodity through his Chief of Staff, Prof Muhammad Ibn Abdallah, and other aides at Azman Rice Company in the Mariri area of Kano on Tuesday.

In the first phase of the distribution, 47,280 households across the 13 LGAs of the Kano North Senatorial District received a bag of rice each.

Across the country, leaders unanimously urged Nigerians to embrace peace, unity, and compassion, stressing that the values of Ramadan remain essential for national cohesion and development.

The Sultanate Council, Sokoto, has declared Friday as the first day of Shawwal 1447AH, marking the celebration of Eid-el-Fitr across Nigeria.

This was announced in a press statement by the Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sultanate Council, Sokoto, Sambo Wali Junaidu, on Wednesday.

The council based the announcement on the non-sighting of the Shawwal 1447AH new moon on Wednesday, the 29th day of Ramadan.

When the crescent is not sighted on the 29th day of Ramadan, the month is completed as 30 days, after which Eid-el-Fitr is observed the following day.

In Islam, the end of Ramadan and the beginning of Shawwal are determined by the sighting of the crescent moon, a practice rooted in the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad.

The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, under the leadership of the Sultan of Sokoto, coordinates moon sighting efforts across Nigeria through a network of committees to ensure a unified announcement for Muslims in the country.

According to the statement, “No report was received from various Moon Sighting Committees across the country confirming the sighting of the new moon of Shawwal 1447AH on Wednesday, March 18, which corresponded with the 29th day of Ramadan.

“Therefore, Thursday, 19th March 2026, is the 30th day of the month of Ramadan 1447AH,” the statement added.

“The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, accepted the report and accordingly declared Friday, 20th March 2026, as the first day of Shawwal 1447AH (Day of Eid-el-Fitr),” the statement added.

Felicitating with Muslims, the Sultan urged continued prayers for national peace and development.

“His Eminence felicitates with the Nigerian Muslim Ummah and wishes them Allah’s guidance and blessings,” the statement read.

The Sultan expressed hope that the spiritual benefits of Ramadan would be sustained beyond the fasting period, praying that “Allah (SWT) accept our religious deeds.”

Ahead of Friday’s celebration, commands of the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps have deployed hundreds of personnel across the country.

The deployment directives mandate personnel to safeguard flashpoints, including shopping malls, Eid prayer grounds, mosques, churches, motor parks and recreation centres.

They also include routine patrols, visibility policing and a show of force, with special focus on crimes associated with festivities such as phone snatching, pickpocketing and traffic-related offences.

On Tuesday, the Federal Government declared Thursday and Friday as public holidays to mark the celebration of Eid‑el‑Fitr, which signifies the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

The NSCDC said it had deployed over 53,500 personnel nationwide to ensure a peaceful and hitch-free celebration.

The Commandant-General of the corps, Abubakar Audi, in a statement by the NSCDC spokesperson, Babawale Afolabi, said the deployment included tactical operatives and intelligence squads strategically positioned across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

Audi directed his men to address emerging threats and safeguard critical national assets and infrastructure during the festive period.

He also tasked all provosts of colleges, zonal commanders and state commandants to ensure adequate security coverage within their jurisdictions.

“Identified flashpoints such as shopping malls, Eid prayer grounds, mosques, churches, motor parks, recreation centres and other public spaces are to be closely monitored and manned by both uniformed and undercover operatives to nip any criminal activity in the bud.

“The Commandant-General further emphasised the need for intensified routine patrols and sustained synergy with other security agencies through effective information sharing and swift response to emergencies reported by members of the public,” the statement read.

In Gombe State, the NSCDC Commandant, Jibrin Idris, said the deployment was targeted at Eid prayer grounds, Hawan Durbar venues, recreational centres, markets, motor parks and other public places, as well as critical national assets.

For the police, the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 3, Yola, Adamawa State, Akinwale Adeniran, directed the commissioners of police in Taraba and Adamawa states to be proactive in implementing security measures.

“These measures include the deployment of both kinetic and non-kinetic assets, enhanced visibility policing, increased surveillance and strategic positioning of personnel at Eid grounds and other worship centres, recreational facilities, motor parks, markets and other public places,” Adeniran said.

He also urged residents to promptly report suspicious movements or activities to the police and other security agencies.

In Niger State, the Commissioner of Police, Adamu Elleman, deployed 5,000 personnel and directed them to comb black spots in the metropolis.

In a statement by the command’s spokesman, Wasiu Abiodun, the CP also directed officers to mobilise operational assets, including anti-riot water cannons, gun trucks and patrol vehicles, to ensure effective policing.

“Following the forthcoming Eid-el-Fitr celebration, the Commissioner of Police has directed officers to deploy for intelligence-led policing and raid black spots within their areas of responsibility for a seamless and peaceful Sallah celebration.

“In addition, tactical teams such as the Police Mobile Force, Counter Terrorism Unit, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit, Tactical Support Team, Monitoring Unit, Crack Squad, Anti-Thuggery Unit and Anti-Kidnapping Unit have been deployed to all major Eid grounds and strategic public places,” the statement read.

He warned that troublemakers would be dealt with in accordance with the law.

The Sokoto State Police Command, through its spokesperson, Ahmad Rufa’i, said personnel had been strategically deployed to key locations, alongside visible policing to deter criminal activities.

“To reinforce security, the Commissioner has directed area commanders, divisional police officers and tactical commanders to intensify patrols and scale up intelligence-led operations across the state,” the statement read.

The command added that it was working closely with other security agencies, community leaders and stakeholders to maintain law and order throughout the celebration.

In Gombe, the police announced robust security arrangements and issued a public advisory to residents.

“We have put in place comprehensive security arrangements and strategic deployment of personnel and operational assets across the state to ensure a peaceful and hitch-free Eid-el-Fitr celebration,” the Commissioner of Police, Umar Chuso, said.

The command urged motorists and motorcyclists to obey traffic regulations and called on parents and guardians to monitor their wards during the festive period.

The Kaduna State Police Command also announced the deployment of personnel across the state to cover major public spaces, including Eid grounds, markets, highways and recreational centres.

“The command has deployed tactical commanders, intelligence operatives and other personnel to all nooks and crannies of the state,” the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, said.

The command reiterated a ban on the use of knockouts, fireworks and similar explosives during the festivities, warning that violators would be arrested and prosecuted.

Similarly, the Kano State Police Command said it had put in place robust security arrangements in collaboration with other agencies to ensure a hitch-free celebration.

The Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Bakori, warned that unlawful and disorderly behaviour would not be tolerated.

“Parents and guardians should warn their children against being used by subversive elements, as anyone found disturbing public peace will be prosecuted,” he said.

In Kebbi State, the police said personnel had been strategically deployed, with intensified patrols and surveillance operations already underway.

The command also cautioned drivers against reckless driving, speeding, and other traffic violations associated with festive periods.

The Katsina State Police Command announced heightened security measures, including restrictions on the use of dangerous weapons during Sallah Durbar activities.

“In collaboration with the Durbar organising committee, the command has banned ‘Yan Tauri’ from participating in the Sallah Durbar, and this applies to any individual or group bearing dangerous weapons such as knives, clubs and swords,” the statement read.

The command warned that it would not hesitate to take stern action against anyone found flouting the law.

“The public is urged to be vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities. We assure residents of our commitment to protecting lives and property and ensuring a safe and secure Eid celebration,” the statement added.

The Edo State Police Command deployed 5,000 personnel for the festivities.

In a statement, the PPRO of the command, Eno Ikoedem, said the deployment was to ensure a peaceful and secure atmosphere across the state.

She noted that the deployment cuts across Eid prayer grounds, major roads, motor parks, and other locations expected to witness large gatherings.

“A total of 5,000 police personnel have been deployed to enhance police visibility, dominate public spaces and respond promptly to any emerging situation.

“In addition, the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) personnel have been strategically positioned and are already carrying out sweeps of designated prayer grounds and high-traffic areas to detect and neutralise any potential threats. These preventive checks will continue throughout the celebration period,” the statement read.

The Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, also directed sustained patrols and intelligence-driven operations, with particular attention to entry and exit routes into the State.

The Adamawa State Police Command, in a statement signed by its spokesman, SP Suleiman Nguroje, said it put in place comprehensive security measures to ensure a peaceful, safe, and hitch-free Eid-el-Fitr celebrations.

“In collaboration with sister security agencies and other friendly forces, the command has deployed a robust combination of operational and manpower assets, including personnel from the 14 PMF, 65 PMF, Counter Terrorism Unit (CTU) Base, State Intelligence Department (SID),  Area Commands, Divisional police headquarters, Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD)/CBRN Unit, as well as other tactical and conventional formations within the Command to ensure coordinated and effective security coverage across the State,” the statement read.

The command also intensified visible policing and confidence-building patrols across urban and rural communities, with stop-and-search operations along entry and exit routes to the state.

The Ogun State police command deployed its operatives to specifically provide water-tight security across the highways, markets, praying grounds and other critical public infrastructure across the state.

The spokesperson of the command, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, in a statement made available to journalists on Wednesday, said, “The Command places high priority on the protection of worship centres, critical infrastructure, and the safety of all residents before, during, and after the festive period.

“In line with this proactive approach, the command has deployed personnel and operational assets in advance to strategic locations across the state.”

The Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo, reassured residents of the command’s firm commitment to maintaining law and order and safeguarding lives and property across the state.

Osun State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, urged parents to caution their children against unlawful gatherings, especially during the celebrations.

In a statement obtained in Osogbo on Wednesday, he also said the command was ready to move against any act capable of disrupting public peace during the celebrations.

Gotan, who said the command had made adequate preparation to protect the lives and properties of the residents during and after the celebrations, said personnel had been deployed to strategic places across the state to ensure a hitch-free festival.

“Religious and community leaders are encouraged to continue to preach messages of harmony, mutual respect, and lawful conduct even after Ramadan.

“Furthermore, the command urges all road users/motorists to obey all traffic rules and regulations,” Gotan said.

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A Lagos-based woman, Osarobo Odigie, has instituted legal action against popular TikTok streamer Habeeb Hamzat , popularly known as Peller, over alleged defamation, cyber harassment, and invasion of privacy at a lounge.

In a pre-action letter dated March 10, 2026, and signed by Bola Osineye of FA Garrick & Co., the claimant’s lawyers accused the influencer of making defamatory remarks against their client and publishing a video of her online without consent.

According to the letter, the incident occurred in the early hours of January 6, 2026, at Folixxx Lounge along the Lekki-Epe Expressway in Lagos State.

“Our client was present at Folixxx Lounge… for the purpose of purchasing food. While standing at the counter/cashier area, our client was suddenly startled by your loud outburst directly behind her,” the letter stated.

The lawyers alleged that after Odigie moved away from Peller due to the loudness, he confronted her and demanded to know why she had stepped aside.

“You aggressively approached her and proceeded to instruct her to ‘shut up’. When she requested that you moderate yourself in a public space, you immediately resorted to verbal abuse, including but not limited to Yoruba curses such as ‘Oloriburuku,’ ‘Omo Ale,’ and ‘Ashawo,’” the letter read.

The law firm said the words were “untrue, ridiculing and defamatory,” and were used publicly with the intention of humiliating their client.

They further alleged that Peller recorded the confrontation on his phone without her consent and subsequently shared the video across multiple social media platforms.

“You proceeded to escalate the situation by producing your mobile phone and using the same to record our client without her consent. You thereafter published the video on your Snapchat, WhatsApp, TikTok, Instagram and other social media platforms, causing public ridicule of our client,” the letter added.

The lawyers claimed the video quickly went viral due to the influencer’s large online following, attracting thousands of comments and allegedly leading to harassment and cyberbullying directed at their client.

“Owing to your substantial online presence and following as a streamer and public influencer, the video went viral almost immediately… triggering thousands of comments, many of which reiterated and amplified your defamatory remarks against her,” the letter stated.

The claimant also alleged that the online exposure had led to reputational damage, emotional distress and threats to her safety.

“Our client has suffered significant emotional distress and has developed genuine fears for her safety,” the lawyers wrote.

Consequently, the claimant is demanding a total sum of N395m in damages. This includes N200m as compensation for the alleged defamatory publication, N100m for emotional trauma and reputational harm, and N75m for additional distress caused by alleged cyberbullying and threats from members of the public.

The legal team also demanded N20m to cover legal fees and related costs.

In addition to the monetary compensation, the lawyers asked Peller to immediately cease further publication of the video, remove the content from all his social media platforms, and issue a public apology.

The apology, according to the letter, must be published across his social media platforms and in two national newspapers, The PUNCH and The Guardian, acknowledging that the statements were “false, malicious and injurious” to the claimant’s reputation.

“You are required to issue a clear, unequivocal, and public apology to our client across all platforms where the defamatory content was published,” the lawyers said.

They also demanded that the influencer notify third-party blogs and platforms where the video may have been reposted and ensure its removal within seven days.

The lawyers warned that failure to comply with the demands within the stipulated period would result in the commencement of legal proceedings.

“Should you fail, refuse, or neglect to comply… our client shall, without further recourse to you, institute appropriate legal proceedings against you,” the letter stated.

The lawsuit follows a widely circulated confrontation between Peller and the woman at a Lagos eatery on January 6.

Peller had earlier apologised publicly to the woman on January 9 after the video sparked widespread criticism online. In the apology video, he admitted that his reaction was out of character and expressed regret for his conduct during the altercation.

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