Nollywood actress Judy Austin faced an unexpected reception outside the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory in Abuja on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, as some members of the crowd taunted her following a court proceeding involving veteran actress Rita Edochie.
The development occurred amid the ongoing legal dispute between the two actresses, after Austin instituted a defamation suit against Edochie.
According to court documents cited by GistReel, Austin is seeking ₦1 billion in damages from Edochie, alongside a public retraction and apology, ₦50 million in additional relief and 10 per cent post-judgment interest, among other demands.
Both actresses were present at the Abuja court for the latest proceedings.
While Austin was seen arriving and later leaving the court premises, Edochie attended with members of her legal team and supporters. Reports also said some of her supporters had travelled from outside Nigeria to stand by her during the legal battle.
However, the atmosphere became tense after Austin emerged from the court.
A video circulating online showed people gathered outside the court calling out to the actress. Among the remarks heard from the crowd was: “Husband snatcher, who is taking her in-law to court?”
The confrontation quickly generated reactions on social media, adding another layer of public attention to the already highly publicised dispute.
The legal battle involves allegations of defamatory statements, with Austin seeking financial damages and other remedies through the court. A separate suit involving her former husband, Emmanuel Obasi, is also reportedly before the court, with the claims in the two cases running into more than ₦2 billion.
The court has adjourned the matter involving Edochie and the other proceedings until November 24, 2026, when the legal battle is expected to continue.
