By Chinedum Treasure
A Federal High Court in Awka, Anambra State, has awarded N5 million damages against the Chairman of Onitsha South Local Government Area, Emeka Orji, and other respondents over the demolition of shops belonging to Lake Petroleum Limited.
The court, presided over by Justice B.M.K Mohammed, ruled in favour of the company in a fundamental rights enforcement suit, holding that the demolition of properties at Ndende Land along Niger Street in 2024 was illegal and unconstitutional.
The respondents in the suit include the Anambra State Government, the State Attorney General, the Onitsha South LGA chairman and the Inspector General of Police.
Lake Petroleum Limited had approached the court after over 2,300 shops and buildings were demolished, displacing thousands of traders and destroying goods and equipment worth millions of naira. The company also obtained an interim injunction which was allegedly ignored.
Delivering judgment, the court held that the actions of the respondents violated the applicant’s right to own property and subsequently awarded N5 million in damages. It also granted a perpetual injunction restraining further interference with the company’s property.
Counsel to the applicant, Charles Arinze, described the ruling as a victory for the rule of law, noting that his client chose legal redress rather than self-help.
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Onitsha, Anambra State, Court ruling, Fundamental rights, Property demolition, Nigeria news, Judiciary, Local government, Human rights, Legal case
