Emeka Ike reveals reason for lawsuit against INEC, Olayinka

By Folashade Olorunfemi –

Veteran Nollywood actor Emeka Ike has disclosed that his legal battle against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and Lere Olayinka, media aide to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, goes beyond his personal interest.

Speaking in a recent interview with Pulse Nigeria, Ike said the lawsuit is driven by his desire for justice rather than financial compensation. “Honestly, what I want is justice. I want justice for Nigeria, however it comes, so that they can stop taking Nigerians for a ride. That’s just what I crave,” he said, stressing that his N10 billion claim is not the central issue.

The actor maintained that the case is about accountability and strengthening Nigeria’s democracy. “It’s not about the money or the election, but about us being prudent, truthful and official in everything we do. We just need to keep applying the law to strengthen the foundations of Nigerian democracy,” he said.

The controversy followed Ike’s bid to secure the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) ticket for the AMAC/Bwari Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives ahead of the 2027 general elections. He alleged that Olayinka published screenshots containing details of his voter registration transfer from Imo State to Abuja on X without his consent.

In the suit, Ike is seeking N10 billion in general and aggravated damages against INEC and Olayinka, a declaration that INEC’s public response amounted to an admission of liability, an order directing Olayinka to delete the post, and a written apology.

INEC and Olayinka have asked the court to dismiss the suit. The electoral commission argued that the information published was neither confidential nor sensitive, noting that voter details are publicly displayed in line with the Electoral Act, 2026. Olayinka also maintained that the information was already in the public domain.

During Wednesday’s proceedings, Justice Salim Ibrahim of the Federal High Court in Abuja advised both parties to consider an out-of-court settlement after all parties were represented before the court.

Responding to whether he would accept a settlement, Ike insisted that justice remains his priority. “It’s not for the money, and if they want peace, it is fine, but I want justice, which is, most importantly, what should be. Justice is what we crave,” he said.