Neo Akpofure Demands Public Retraction Over Alleged Defamatory Claims on Social Media
Reality TV star Neo Akpofure has taken legal steps following allegations of sexual misconduct circulating on social media. Akpofure’s legal team from E.L. Akpofure, San & Co. sent a formal legal notice to 𝕏 (formerly Twitter) user, Ms. Arikan Udoka, who made the claims.
The allegations, reportedly referencing events during their time at the University of Calabar (UNICAL), claimed the encounter between the two was non-consensual and suggested they had previously engaged in casual sexual relations.
Akpofure’s lawyers described the posts as “false and malicious,” emphasizing the significant reputational and emotional harm caused to their client. The notice demands that Udoka:
Remove the posts and any related content from social media.
Issue a public apology and retraction.
Provide a written promise to refrain from making further defamatory statements.
The legal team warned that failure to comply within 48 hours would result in the initiation of civil defamation proceedings under Nigerian law.
The notice reads in part: “Your allegation is entirely false, malicious and defamatory to say the least. It portrays our Client as a sexual offender and a criminal, thereby subjecting him to public odium, reputational injury, emotional distress, and severe personal and professional damage.”
Opinion: The Fine Line Between Allegations and Reputation
The Neo Akpofure case underscores a recurring challenge in the social media era: the speed at which allegations can spread versus the careful consideration needed before making public claims. In high-profile situations, a single post can have lasting effects on a person’s career, mental health, and public image.
While the importance of speaking up against genuine abuse cannot be overstated, social media users must balance their right to voice experiences with responsibility for accuracy. False or unverified claims can have severe consequences, sometimes prompting legal intervention, as seen here.
From Akpofure’s perspective, taking legal action is not just about defending personal reputation; it is also a statement about accountability in an era where misinformation can go viral within minutes. Public figures, though frequently scrutinized, deserve protection from damaging falsehoods that can cause long-term harm.
This case serves as a reminder to both influencers and the public: social media power comes with responsibility, and truth should always be the guiding principle when discussing sensitive matters.
