Drama as court adjourns alleged illegal ejection case to April 24
Court Proceedings Marred by Delays in Property Dispute Case
Maitama, Abuja – Tensions arose at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court on Tuesday as Abubakar Mohammed, a lawyer present solely to observe, claimed that delays were hindering the progress of a case before Justice Samira Bature.
The case involves Asabe Waziri, who alleges that she was unlawfully evicted from her residence in the Maitama District. Mohammed was in the courtroom on behalf of Waziri, although his role was primarily to monitor the proceedings.
The defendants, including human rights lawyer Victor Giwa and associates Cecil Osakwe and Edith Erhunmuuse, are accused of orchestrating the eviction.
Following Mohammed’s remarks, Giwa contested his right to speak, asserting that he was only there to formally announce his presence for the complainant. Giwa indicated that Mohammed was previously employed by him but had since been retained by Waziri.
“The alleged victim is the one harassing me. She is now using my former staff against me in court,” Giwa stated. He maintained that Mohammed’s role was limited, stating, “He has no right to address the court.”
In response, Justice Bature confirmed that she had not recorded Mohammed’s statements.
The proceedings were ultimately stalled due to the absence of Erhunmuuse, who cited health issues and a lack of legal representation. The case has faced multiple delays, including a prior adjournment to allow the third defendant to secure a lawyer.
Erhunmuuse’s lawyer, C. C. Onyechere, confirmed her absence was due to health concerns, while the court had previously noted delays when counsel for the prosecution was unavailable due to an overseas assignment.
Justice Bature stressed the importance of avoiding further delays that could impede the arraignment. In her ruling, she noted that the case had already faced numerous adjournments and that additional delays would not be permitted.
She addressed pending applications challenging the court’s jurisdiction, stating they would be reviewed once the prosecution was present to respond.
Emphasizing the need for fairness, Justice Bature remarked, “In the interest of justice, both parties must be given the opportunity to be heard.” She directed the third defendant’s counsel to ensure her presence at the next hearing, while underscoring the obligation to notify the prosecution accordingly.
The court has adjourned the case until April 24, 2024.
