TOUCHAHEART – In a landmark decision, the Court of Appeal in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, has upheld a N5 million fine against popular Nigerian On-Air Personality, Ifedayo Olarinde, widely known as Daddy Freeze.
This ruling stems from a previous judgment by the Rivers State High Court, which found Daddy Freeze guilty of committing adultery with Benedicta Elechi, the wife of Paul Odekina.
High Court’s Initial Judgment
The Rivers State High Court had earlier ordered Daddy Freeze to pay N5 million in damages to Paul Odekina.
The court’s decision was based on the grounds that Daddy Freeze’s actions had deprived Odekina of the amiable companionship of his wife, Benedicta Elechi.
The court also dissolved the marriage between Paul and Benedicta due to her infidelity.
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Appeal and Arguments
Daddy Freeze challenged the High Court’s ruling, arguing that he was not properly served with court papers and that the courier service used was ineffective.
He contended that these procedural lapses should nullify the judgment against him.
However, a three-man panel of the Court of Appeal dismissed Daddy Freeze’s appeal, stating that his arguments lacked merit.
The panel emphasized that if Daddy Freeze wanted to contest the judgment on the grounds of non-service, he should have filed a counter-affidavit against the affidavit of service.
The court found that Daddy Freeze had not followed the proper legal procedures to challenge the service of the court papers.
Legal Implications
The Court of Appeal’s decision reinforces the importance of adhering to legal procedures when contesting court judgments.
It also highlights the judiciary’s stance on upholding moral and legal standards in marital relationships.
The affirmation of the N5 million fine against Daddy Freeze serves as a significant precedent in Nigerian legal history.
It underscores the judiciary’s commitment to ensuring justice and maintaining the sanctity of marriage.
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