Gyang Zi Seeks N10bn Damages After Failed APC Screening Controversy

A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and Plateau North Senatorial aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Gyang Zi, has withdrawn from the party’s ongoing primary election and demanded N10 billion in damages over what he described as a defamatory publication declaring him “not cleared.

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In a letter dated May 18, 2026, and addressed to the APC National Chairman, Zi alleged that the party published his name on social media and its official X handle among aspirants not cleared for the primary election without stating any reason.
The letter, signed by Gyang Zi, SAN & Co., was obtained in Jos on Thursday.
Zi stated that the publication was made despite his payment for nomination and expression of interest forms, as well as his participation in the screening process for the Plateau North Senatorial District primary election.
According to him, the publication portraying him as “not cleared” without justification had seriously damaged his reputation, exposed him to public ridicule, and destabilised his supporters and political structure across Plateau North Senatorial District and beyond.
The aspirant further said the development had embarrassed his legal career, political ambition, and public standing.
Consequently, Zi announced his withdrawal from the primary election pending what he described as an immediate retraction, public apology, and compensation from the party.
He demanded N10 billion as damages for alleged defamation, reputational injury, and emotional distress.
Zi warned that failure to meet the demand within a reasonable time would leave him with no option but to seek legal redress against the party and all individuals connected to the publication.
As of the time of filing the report, the APC had yet to respond to the allegation. (TRIBUNE)