Legal dispute erupts: Sani Mouhamadou denies citing Maxime Eko Eko in press statement
Yaoundé’s legal circles are abuzz following a right of reply filed by Me Mélissa Nyoth, on behalf of her client Sani Mouhamadou, disputing claims made in a public statement attributed to Maxime Eko Eko Léopold.
The controversy stems from a press release circulated on August 9, 2026, in which Eko Eko’s legal team alleged that Sani Mouhamadou had falsely implicated the Directorate General of External Research (DGRE) in a 2020 engagement involving his professional services and network.
In response, Sani Mouhamadou categorically denied referencing Maxime Eko Eko in his earlier statement, which was issued to address videos circulating online on July 24 and 25, 2026, aimed at protecting his professional reputation.
Sani Mouhamadou clarified that the DGRE never solicited his services, contrary to claims made in Eko Eko’s statement. Instead, he revealed that it was Maxime Eko Eko Léopold who initiated contact via messaging on February 1, 2020, requesting urgent assistance in the following terms: « XXX… I urgently need your help …XXX ».
The legal representative further emphasized that Sani Mouhamadou holds a certified expertise from the Higher Institute of National Defense Studies, reinforcing the legitimacy of his professional standing.
Formal and informal attempts at resolution
Following the publication of the contested statement, Sani Mouhamadou pursued an informal amicable resolution to correct the alleged misinformation, but no corrective action was taken.
In light of this, Sani Mouhamadou has demanded the immediate withdrawal of the press release within 48 hours. Failure to comply, he warns, will result in legal action for defamation, citing evidence in his possession to substantiate his claims.
The right of reply, dated August 10, 2026, was signed by Me Mélissa Nyoth, a legal practitioner registered under Bar Association matricule 2007084229.
