The court awarded actress Adunni Ade ₦20 million in damages against Dino

Nollywood actress Adunni Ade has won a ₦20 million defamation lawsuit against a gossip blog that falsely linked her to an alleged romantic relationship with Nigerian politician Dino Melaye.

The verdict, delivered by the Lagos High Court on Tuesday, marks a significant victory for the actress, who has declared her innocence and condemned the ugly nature of the report.

Judge Olukayode Adeniyi ruled on Tuesday that the publication’s claims were “malicious, baseless and detrimental” to Adunni Ade’s reputation, ordering the defendants to pay ₦20 million in damages and issue a public apology within seven days. The court emphasized that freedom of expression does not confer the right to convey unverified personal accusations.

Reacting after the verdict in a post shared on his social media page on Wednesday, Adunni Ade expressed his relief and gratitude, and described the verdict as a “victory for truth and integrity.”

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“I won my case—Adunni Ade vs. Polace Media Limited. A false story was published about me, but the truth stands firm. This decision reaffirms that privacy matters—and so does integrity. Justice delayed is not justice denied.

”Many thanks to my lawyer! You worked tirelessly on this case, Olumide Babalola LP. 2 cases won, there are still several more cases. For those of you who are running around avoiding court papers, please stand still so they can be served.

”And to you fellow actresses who told fake stories to cute Jules, don’t worry, the world will soon find out what kind of snake you are. Envy and bitterness live and breathe inside you. You are deadly! You must have forgotten what you showed me in my room? Anyway, thanks to the Nigerian judiciary.” The actress added.

Adunni Ade also urged media platforms to prioritize ethics over sensationalism, stating that “people’s and families’ lives are affected by lies spread online.” The decision is seen as a major statement against digital defamation in the Nigerian entertainment industry.