Renowned cleric and founder of Liberty Gospel Church, Helen Ukpabio, has threatened to sue Nigerian singer Emoseh Khamofu, popularly known as Bloody Civilian, for alleged defamation. In a letter dated November 25, Ukpabio demanded ₦200 billion in damages for what she described as reckless and libellous accusations made by the singer on social media.
The Allegation
The controversy erupted when a Twitter post by #OneJoblessBoy celebrated Ukpabio’s 60th birthday, attaching a photo of the pastor. The tweet garnered 4.6 million views and widespread reactions.
Bloody Civilian later retweeted the post with the caption:
“She literally made people burn their children alive.”
The comment referenced long-standing controversies surrounding Ukpabio, a self-styled “witch hunter” whose teachings have sparked debates over alleged abuses in the name of deliverance from witchcraft.
The post drew a sharp response from Ukpabio’s daughter, Imaobong Ukpabio, who demanded the tweet’s deletion within five hours, threatening legal action.
Legal Threats and Demands
Ukpabio’s legal counsel described Bloody Civilian’s statement as “reckless, satanic, and libellous.” In the letter, they demanded an immediate retraction, a written apology, and publication of the apology in 10 national and international dailies within 72 hours.
The legal team claimed that investigations conducted by the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Security Services concluded the accusations were “grossly false.”
“Due to this malicious and libellous publication, we demand the sum of ₦200 billion as damages for the distress, trauma, pain, and anguish caused to our client. This amount must be transferred to our chambers within one week of receiving this letter,” the letter read.
Bloody Civilian Responds
The singer, known for her tracks “How To Kill A Man” and “Wake Up” featuring Rema in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, responded lightheartedly to the lawsuit on social media. She tweeted:
“Guys, they just sued me for 200 billion naira. This December, I will add the following to my services: settling family disputes, weddings, comedy…”
Mixed Reactions
The lawsuit has divided public opinion. While some back the singer, claiming Ukpabio’s past teachings and practices justify scrutiny, others question Bloody Civilian’s motives, suggesting the comment might stem from personal grievances or a bid for clout.
One supporter of Bloody Civilian, Winston Adaete, tweeted:
“She did this and more! If we run a public campaign in Calabar and Akwa Ibom, many parents and grown children who were victims WILL gladly come out to testify against the mother’s witchcraft!”
Meanwhile, others expressed skepticism about the singer’s claims, accusing her of overstepping boundaries for attention.
