Judy Austin sued Rita Edochie over alleged defamatory statements. Judy filed the case at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory in Abuja and is seeking damages, a retraction and other court orders.
What Rita Edochie Allegedly Said About Judy Austin
Rita Edochie criticised Judy after Judy commented on women wearing the traditional Igbo red cap without holding an Igbo title.
Rita wrote: “You can’t be a thief and expect me to learn morals from you.”
She also called Judy a “desperate home wrecker” and questioned her authority to discuss traditional matters.
“Who are you to lecture on traditional matters?”
Legit.ng reported the comments in June 2026 after Rita responded to Judy’s remarks about the Igbo red cap.
Why Judy Austin Sued Rita Edochie
Judy’s lawsuit accuses Rita of making statements that Judy considers defamatory.
Judy filed the case at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory in Abuja, with Judy as the claimant and Rita as the defendant.
Judy is seeking damages, a retraction and an apology.
She also wants Rita stopped from making or circulating similar statements and wants the alleged defamatory material removed from online platforms.
How Much Is Judy Austin Claiming From Rita Edochie?
YEN.com.gh reported that Judy is seeking N1 billion in general damages from Rita.
The report said Judy also wants Rita to publish a full retraction and apology in at least two national newspapers and on her social media accounts.
According to Legit.ng, the suit against Rita seeks N50 million in damages, together with 10% post-judgment interest.
Judy Austin and Rita Edochie’s Earlier Disputes
Rita criticised Judy in earlier disputes involving Yul Edochie’s family.
In 2023, Rita told Judy to stop claiming that Pete Edochie had approved her marriage to Yul.
Rita has also defended May Edochie during disputes involving Yul, Judy and members of the Edochie family.
Judy Austin’s Lawsuit Against Emmanuel Obasi
Judy also filed a separate case against her former husband, Emmanuel Obasi.
According to Legit.ng, Judy is seeking N1 billion from Obasi over allegations connected to their former marriage and his statements about her relationship with Yul Edochie.
Judy has said her marriage to Obasi ended in 2013 and has rejected allegations concerning the timing of her relationship with Yul.
What Happens Next
The case is before the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory in Abuja.
Rita Edochie’s response to the lawsuit had not been reported at the time of publication.
