Renowned gospel singer Nathaniel Bassey has taken legal action against four individuals for allegedly spreading false rumors about his paternity.
Bassey, through his legal representatives, filed a petition with the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, seeking the investigation and prosecution of the accused for criminal defamation and cyberstalking.
The petition, submitted by Bassey’s lawyers Peter Abraham, Uche Matthew, Gbenga Agunloye, and Anthony Abia, highlights the distress caused by recent social media allegations linking him to the paternity of a fellow gospel singer’s child.
According to the petition, Bassey’s lawyers stated, “Our client is a gospel music minister whose songs and ministrations have impacted the lives of so many from different walks of life across the globe.”
“The post by Mr. Okoronkwo Ejike has since gone viral on the platform. In reaction to the post, Mr. Kingsley Ibeh commented on Mr. Okoronkwo’s post with a picture of our client with the caption “The real father of the baby.”
“In a post on the platform “X” formerly known as Twitter, “Dj SpoiltKid” a verified X user, quoted the statement by Okoronkwo Ejike along with a screenshot of the post and added, “When are we doing DNA test?”
“In another post, Mr. Terrence Ekot, on the platform “X” made a post thus: “Take a look at the stunning resemblance of mercy chinwo’s son and Nathaniel Bassey. Though duo has been working together on several projects in the past..what do you have to say?”
The accusations surfaced when certain social media users, identified as Okoronkwo Ejike, Kingsley Ibeh, Terrence Ekot, and Dj Spoiltkid, propagated insinuations that Bassey fathered the child of another gospel artist.
In the petition, Bassey’s legal team emphasized the damaging impact of the false claims on his reputation and character. They cited specific social media posts made by the accused, including comments suggesting Bassey’s involvement in paternity issues.
The lawyers argued that such actions constitute criminal defamation and cyberstalking under relevant legal statutes. They urged the police to promptly investigate the matter, apprehend the suspects, and ensure justice is served.
Furthermore, the petition underscored the broader consequences of unfounded rumors on individuals’ reputations, marriages, and international standing.
Bassey’s legal team implored the Inspector General of Police to take decisive action to address the issue and prevent similar occurrences in the future.
