NAIROBI, Kenya — Media personality Oga Obinna has won a defamation case against Radio Africa Group, securing Sh6.1 million in damages over false remarks made about him during a live radio broadcast.
In a ruling delivered by Senior Principal Magistrate Edward Too, the court found that Radio Africa Group, Radio Jambo presenter Massawe Japanni, and a socialite guest defamed Obinna by broadcasting unverified allegations that injured his reputation.
The court ordered that out of the total award, Sh5 million be paid as general damages, Sh500,000 for aggravated damages, Sh500,000 for damages in lieu of an apology, and Sh100,000 as exemplary damages.
The magistrate also issued a permanent injunction restraining the defendants from publishing similar defamatory remarks about Obinna.
Obinna, who formerly worked with Kiss 100 and Nation FM, revealed on social media that he filed the case a year ago after the controversial interview aired on Massawe Japanni’s show on Radio Jambo.
He accused the host and producers of failing to seek evidence or verify the claims made by the socialite before airing them.
“She gets invited for an interview by Massawe on her show and makes the same defamatory remarks. The host and producers never asked for evidence but decided to air the story for views and likes,” Obinna said.
He noted that the allegations led to widespread online ridicule and damaged his professional image. “Despite the story resulting in me being called all kinds of names online and offline, they never apologised,” he added.
According to court records, the socialite—who was listed as the third defendant—did not appear in court despite being summoned, prompting the magistrate to proceed with the matter in her absence.
Legal analysts note that the decision reinforces the responsibility of media houses and broadcasters to uphold ethical standards in content verification and avoid airing unsubstantiated claims that could harm reputations.
Obinna welcomed the judgment, saying it served as a warning against defamation. “We won the case, and justice has been served. Let this be a reminder that words have consequences,” he posted.
He further joked that the award would help him complete building his home, adding, “If anyone else defames me, I’ll sue again.”
The ruling adds to growing jurisprudence in Kenya’s defamation law, underscoring that public figures and private individuals alike are entitled to protection against false and damaging publications.
