The Chairman of Ibi Local Government Area in Taraba State, Emmanuel Ubandoma, has reportedly been sued for ₦20 billion over alleged threats against civil servants and political appointees who support opposition politicians.

The suit follows the circulation of a video in which Ubandoma was allegedly heard warning government employees against engaging in political activities he considered contrary to the interests of Governor Agbu Kefas’s administration.

Viral Video Sparks Controversy

In the video, Ubandoma, who is also identified as the All Progressives Congress (APC) chairman in Ibi LGA, reportedly warned civil servants and political appointees that they could face consequences if they failed to demonstrate loyalty to the government that pays their salaries.

He was also heard insisting that official responsibilities should take precedence over personal and family relationships, urging those unable to separate the two to resign from their positions.

Ubandoma reportedly threatened to take action against government employees he accused of supporting opposition politicians and said he would begin exposing individuals he believed had betrayed the administration’s trust.

₦20bn Lawsuit Follows Alleged Threats

The reported ₦20 billion lawsuit brings the controversy into the legal arena. However, the specific claims made by the plaintiffs, the legal grounds for the amount sought and the reliefs requested could not be independently confirmed from the available reports.

The case raises questions about the limits of political pressure on public employees and the rights of civil servants and political appointees to their lawful political affiliations.

Allegations Yet to Be Determined

The lawsuit does not, by itself, establish liability on the part of Ubandoma. The allegations and the issues raised in the case remain subject to the legal process.