Businessman Ajanaku Demands N100m, Apology Over Allegations by Fresh FM

Otunba Rotimi Ajanaku, a well-known businessman, philanthropist, and political figure in Oyo State, has complained that Fresh FM Nigeria, which is owned by well-known gospel performer Yinka Ayefele, has broadcast false and destructive accusations against him, seriously harming his reputation.

Therefore, Ajanaku, through his legal representatives, Obisesan & Co. (The Law Union), served the station’s CEO/Managing Director at Ayefele Music House, Challenge, Ibadan, with a strongly worded petition demanding three immediate actions from Fresh FM: “A public apology to Otunba Ajanaku for the defamatory broadcast, a halt to any further defamatory comments or reports about him, and the payment of N100 million in general damages.”

Chief (Dr) T.A. ‘Lowo Obisesan, the chairman and founding partner of the law firm, signed the petition, accusing Fresh FM of broadcasting a statement on August 13, 2025, claiming that Ajanaku’s hotel construction in Imalefalafia Community, Oke-Ado, Ibadan, had blocked public rights of way, caused flooding, and destroyed a portion of the late Pa Obafemi Awolowo’s master plan for the area.

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The petition claims that the accusations raised by Fresh FM’s correspondent, Adeola Bankole, were broadcast without the station making an effort to get in touch with Ajanaku or confirm important details like the official survey plan, the community’s government-approved master plan, or any formal complaint filed with the appropriate authorities.

According to Ajanaku, he obtained the necessary government approvals for the Dino Hotel project and lawfully purchased the land. He also claims that he started building under the guidance of his site engineer.

In addition to violating the legal principle of audi alteram partem, or “hear the other side,” his attorneys contend that Fresh FM’s conduct turned the station into “an instrument for perpetuating injustice” and violated his fundamental right to a fair hearing.