By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

The proprietor of Awka-based security outfit in Anambra State capital, Blue Shield Security Company Ltd, Ozo Jeff Nweke, has dragged the Anambra State Commissioner of Police, Aderemi Adeoye and the Police Service Commission (PSC) to court over defamation.

The case was filed on behalf of Nweke by his counsel, G U Moneke of Udoka Chambers, Awka.

Nweke, apart from claiming N200 million being general damages for libel is also seeking a perpetual injunction restraining the defendants from publishing any defamatory matter against him in the case instituted at Awka High Court.

He also urged the court to order them to publish a written apology to the plaintiff in any two national daily newspapers.

In the writ of summons, the Registrar of the court said: “You are hereby commanded that within forty two days after the service of this writ on you, inclusive of the day of such service, you do cause an appearance to be entered for you in an action at the suit of Ozo Jeff Nweke and take notice that in default of your so doing, the plaintiff may proceed there in, and judgment may be given in your absence.”

According to the court Registrar, the writ is to be served within six months from the date of issuance.

The Blue Shield boss in a statement of claim said that the first defendant, the CP, through publications, intended all right thinking men in the society to believe that he is an unrepentant criminal who derives joy breaking the law.

"Since the publication, my company has lost so much patronage such that people no longer engage my services.

“The defendants will continue the publication of defamatory matter unless the court stops them.”

The problem between the security consultant and the police is said to be a result of a protracted land dispute between Nweke’s Awka community and the neighbouring Enugwu Agidi.

This matter which had led to confrontation between police and officials of the Blue Shield Security Company who were hired to guard the disputed land.