By Sunny A. David, Awka
The N3 billion lawsuit filed by the Incorporated Trustees of Onitsha Sports Club against the Ekwerekwu family has been adjourned until July 5th.
The Onitsha High Court No. 4, presided over by Justice Sylvester Odili, awaits a decision from the Anambra State Chief Judge, Justice Onochie Anyachebelu, regarding a defendant’s application to transfer the case.
The Ekwerekwu family alleges bias on the part of Justice Odili, citing a recent interlocutory injunction that prevented them from accessing the Onitsha Sports Club premises.
This is the second time the family has sought a transfer; a previous request to the Administrative Judge of Onitsha Judicial Division was denied.
While the plaintiffs’ counsel argued the transfer request is a delaying tactic, Justice Odili adjourned the case pending the Chief Judge’s ruling.
The case centers on the Ekwerekwu family’s claim to the land occupied by the Sports Club, based on the expiration of a 99-year lease granted during colonial times.
The Sports Club, however, refuses to relinquish any land. A recent peace meeting between the parties failed to reach a resolution.
The Counsels to the plaintiffs, Nnamdi Ibegbu SAN, A. C. Anaenugwu SAN and Chris Ajugwe Esq.
