The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory in Abuja has adjourned actress Judy Austin’s defamation suit against her former husband, Emmanuel Obasi, until November 24, 2026.
The case came up for hearing on Tuesday, September 29, but was adjourned after Obasi, through his lawyer, challenged the jurisdiction of the court to hear the matter.
Judy had filed the suit against Obasi in August, seeking ₦1 billion in general damages over alleged defamatory statements made against her.
According to the court papers, the actress is also seeking an order compelling Obasi to publish a full and unreserved retraction and apology in at least two widely circulated national newspapers and on his social media platforms.
She further wants the court to restrain Obasi and his agents from publishing what she considers defamatory material about her and to order the removal of the alleged defamatory posts from his online platforms.
In addition to the ₦1 billion general damages, Judy is seeking ₦500 million in aggravated damages, ₦500 million in exemplary damages and costs associated with prosecuting the case. Reports on the suit also contain separate cost claims.
The lawsuit followed a series of public allegations made by Obasi concerning their former marriage and Judy’s relationship with actor Yul Edochie. Judy has denied the allegations and moved the dispute to court.
Obasi has now challenged the court’s jurisdiction, meaning the court will first have to consider the objection as the case continues.
The next hearing is scheduled for November 24, 2026.