Nollywood Star Frederick Leonard Escalates Defamation Dispute with Police Petition
Prominent Nollywood actor and producer Frederick Leonard has initiated formal legal proceedings against fellow movie producer and social media commentator Stanley Chibueze Ajemba, widely recognized as Stanley On Top. The action centers on allegations of sustained defamatory and libellous statements that Leonard claims have severely impacted his professional reputation and financial standing within the entertainment industry.
Legal Petition Details and Allegations
In a comprehensive petition dated January 26, 2026, and submitted to the Commissioner of Police in Delta State, Leonard's legal team outlined a series of grievances. The document asserts that Stanley On Top has engaged in a pattern of making unfounded allegations against Leonard for over two years, actions described as unprovoked and damaging. The lawyers emphasized that while the Nigerian Constitution safeguards freedom of expression, this protection does not extend to activities that harm another individual's reputation through libel or slander.
The petition references specific sections of the Criminal Code and the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria, arguing that Leonard's fundamental right to reputation protection has been violated. According to the legal representatives, these persistent statements have not only tarnished Leonard's public image but have also adversely affected his earnings and career opportunities in the competitive Nollywood landscape.
Demands and Potential Consequences
Frederick Leonard's petition presents several clear demands to the Nigerian Police Force. These include:
- Immediate investigation into the alleged defamatory statements
- Formal invitation of Stanley On Top for police questioning
- A written apology from Stanley On Top to be issued publicly
- Complete retraction and removal of all alleged defamatory publications within a seven-day timeframe
The legal document explicitly states that failure to comply with these demands will result in further legal action being pursued through appropriate channels. This escalation demonstrates Leonard's determination to address what he perceives as ongoing character assassination through formal institutional means.
Public Statement and Industry Implications
In a significant move, Frederick Leonard shared the petition document on his Instagram platform, accompanied by a strong public statement. The actor warned that individuals making allegations must be prepared to substantiate their claims with concrete evidence, emphasizing that "the law will take its course" in matters of defamation. This public disclosure highlights the growing trend of entertainment industry figures utilizing both legal mechanisms and social media platforms to address professional disputes and protect their public personas.
The case raises important questions about the boundaries of free expression within Nigeria's entertainment sector and the legal protections available to public figures against reputational harm. As Nollywood continues to expand its global influence, such disputes may establish precedents for how defamation claims are handled within the industry's unique cultural and professional context.
