The Federal High Court in Abuja has deferred the hearing of a fresh N1 billion lawsuit filed by Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), against the Federal Government. The adjournment, granted by Justice James Omotosho, is to allow the plaintiff to properly serve the defence in the suit.
The hearing, initially slated for a specified date, is now rescheduled for March 18. The decision to adjourn comes as the defence counsel, I.I. Hassan, informed the court of their lack of receipt of necessary legal documents.
Alloy Ejimakor, Kanu’s lawyer, countered this assertion, claiming that all required steps for service had been completed. However, he expressed concern over the delay in serving the originating motion and other applications on the defence by the bailiff.
In granting the adjournment, Justice Omotosho emphasized the importance of ensuring proper service to guarantee a fair and just hearing for both parties involved.
The lawsuit, filed by Kanu through his legal representative Alloy Ejimakor, aims to enforce the fundamental rights of the detained IPOB leader. Respondents in the suit include the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Attorney-General of the Federation, the Department of State Service (DSS), and its Director-General.
Kanu’s claims revolve around allegations of forcible seizure and photocopying of confidential legal documents, denial of rights to legal representation of his choice, and infringement on his right to a fair hearing. Additionally, he seeks an order for an official letter of apology and N1 billion in damages for mental, emotional, psychological, and other damages resulting from the alleged breach of his rights.
