The Commander of the Mining Marshals, Attah John Onoja, has instituted a ₦2 billion defamation lawsuit against The Guardian Newspaper over a report he described as false, malicious, and damaging to his reputation and that of the agency.

Filed by his legal counsel, Adeola Adedipe, SAN, the suit challenges a story published on The Guardian’s website on June 23, 2025, titled:
“Community Alleges Involvement of Mining Marshals in Illegal Mining.” Onoja argues that the publication not only misrepresented facts but
also undermined the credibility of the Mining Marshals—Nigeria’s newly formed task force established to combat illegal mining activities
across the country.

According to court documents, the plaintiff is demanding ₦2 billion in exemplary damages, claiming the story was “published globally without verification or seeking balanced perspectives,” thereby inflicting severe reputational harm.

“The publication is a blatant distortion of facts and a calculated attempt to tarnish my image and the integrity of the Mining Marshals,”
Onoja stated. “There must be consequences for reckless journalism aimed at misleading the public and undermining national reform
efforts.”

He further emphasized that the Mining Marshals operate transparently and in line with the rule of law, questioning why the newspaper failed
to reach out to either him or the agency for clarification before going to press.

“This style of journalism, which ignores basic principles of fairness, balance, and accuracy, not only erodes public confidence in the media
but also threatens the success of ongoing reforms in the solid minerals sector,” he added.

Onoja reiterated the unwavering commitment of the Mining Marshals to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, under the guidance of the Minister of Solid Minerals Development. He described the
publication as a “sponsored attack” designed to discredit the agency’s efforts and distract it from its mission.

“No amount of blackmail or smear campaign will derail our resolve. The Mining Marshals remain focused on sanitizing Nigeria’s mining sector
and dismantling illegal operations that have long plagued our economy,” he asserted.

As of the time of filing this report, The Guardian had not issued an official response to the lawsuit. It remains unclear whether the newspaper will retract the story or defend its publication in court.

Legal observers say the outcome of the case may set a significant precedent regarding press freedom, responsible journalism, and institutional accountability within Nigeria’s media landscape.