Renowned businessman, philanthropist, and political leader in Oyo State, Otunba Rotimi Ajanaku, has accused Fresh FM Nigeria, owned by popular gospel artiste Yinka Ayefele, of broadcasting false and damaging allegations against him.

He claims the reports have severely tarnished his reputation.

Through his legal representatives, Obisesan & Co. (The Law Union), Ajanaku has served a strongly worded petition to the station’s Chief Executive Officer/Managing Director at Ayefele Music House, Ibadan, demanding a public apology for the alleged defamatory broadcast, an immediate halt to any further defamatory reports, and payment of ₦100 million in general damages.

The petition, signed by Chief (Dr.) T.A. ’Lowo Obisesan, Chairman and Founding Partner of the firm, accused Fresh FM of airing a broadcast on August 13, 2025, alleging that Ajanaku’s hotel construction in the Imalefalafia Community, Oke-Ado, Ibadan, had obstructed public right of way, caused flooding, and destroyed part of the late Pa Obafemi Awolowo’s master plan for the area.

According to the petition, these claims — re-echoed on air by Fresh FM’s correspondent Adeola Bankole — were aired without contacting Ajanaku or verifying facts such as the official survey plan, government-approved master plan, or any formal complaints to relevant authorities.

Ajanaku maintains that he lawfully acquired the land, secured all necessary government approvals for the Dino Hotel project, and began construction under proper supervision.

His lawyers argue that Fresh FM’s actions breached his right to fair hearing and violated the legal principle of audi alteram partem (“hear the other side”), turning the station into “an instrument for perpetuating injustice.”

Citing Section 375 of the Nigerian Criminal Code Act, which criminalises the publication of defamatory matter, as well as multiple appellate court rulings, the petition warns the station of potential civil and criminal liabilities.

It further stresses that in libel cases, damages are presumed by law without proof of actual loss, and any award should be “adequate to assuage the injury to the plaintiff’s reputation, character, and pride.”

The law firm gave Fresh FM seven days to comply with the demands or face legal proceedings under both civil and criminal law against the station, its agents, and any individuals involved.

The petition also warned of a formal complaint to the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) for allegedly breaching the principle of verifying allegations before airing them.

“This ugly development is highly unfortunate and greatly unexpected of a company of Fresh FM’s calibre. Our client is a man of impeccable character, a political leader, and a generous philanthropist widely loved by the public,” the petition reads.

As of press time, Fresh FM Nigeria had not responded to the allegations.