A Chief Magistrate Court sitting in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, has dismissed a criminal defamation case filed against Nollywood actress Elizabeth Aishat Anjorin, popularly known as Lizzy Anjorin, bringing an end to a legal battle that had attracted public attention.

The suit, marked CR/25/20225, was filed by Audullahi Adebimpe Mosadoluwa, the wife of Lagos-based property developer Ibile. The complainant accused Lizzy Anjorin and her co-defendant, Shakira Ayobami, of criminal defamation, making false statements, and actions allegedly capable of disturbing public peace.

However, Magistrate Sunday A.A. Adukwu ruled that the case lacked merit and was not properly brought before the court. Following a preliminary objection raised by the defendants through their counsel, A.U.E. Ogboi, the court examined whether it had the authority to hear the matter and whether due legal process had been followed.

After reviewing submissions from both parties and referring to relevant legal provisions, the magistrate resolved all issues in favour of the defendants. The court held that the complainant failed to comply with the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015, noting that multiple offences were combined in a single criminal complaint — a move that violated established legal procedures. The magistrate also pointed out that all parties involved reside in Lagos State rather than the FCT, further weakening the court’s jurisdiction over the matter.

Describing the complaint as suffering from serious procedural defects and amounting to an abuse of court process, the court struck out the case and ordered the complainant to pay ₦50,000 as cost to the defendants.

Opinion: A Reminder of the Power — and Responsibility — of the Law

Beyond the courtroom victory, the ruling raises a broader conversation about how legal disputes involving public figures are handled in Nigeria. Celebrity cases often trend quickly online, shaping public opinion long before legal processes are complete. Yet this judgment shows that courts rely strictly on procedure and jurisdiction, not public sentiment.

For many observers, the outcome highlights the importance of following due process, especially in criminal matters where reputations and livelihoods are at stake. Filing cases without strict adherence to legal requirements can lead not only to dismissal but also to financial penalties, as seen in this instance.

At the same time, the case reflects how personal disagreements in the entertainment space can escalate into high-profile legal battles. While the courtroom has now settled this particular dispute, it also serves as a reminder that dialogue, professionalism, and careful legal guidance remain essential in resolving conflicts — especially when the spotlight is involved.

As reactions continue to pour in from fans and industry watchers, one thing is clear: the decision reinforces the idea that in law, procedure matters just as much as the claims themselves.