In a landmark ruling, the Federal High Court, Abuja, has delivered a decisive verdict restraining key government officials and entities from encroaching on the Centenary Economic City Free Zone along Airport Road, Abuja.
Judge Inyang Ekwo, in a historic judgement, has issued a sweeping injunction preventing Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) from any further intrusion into the designated free zone.
Furthermore, the court has ordered a halt to all activities by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and Arab Contractors (OAO) on the site, nullifying any executive actions or decisions taken without the proper consent and approval.
Judge Ekwo has unequivocally declared such encroachment as unconstitutional and illegal, citing violations of NEPZA Act Cap N107 LFN 2004 and relevant sections of the Nigerian Constitution.
The court’s ruling extends to the immediate vacation of the illegally occupied portion of the Centenary Economic City Free Zone by Arab Contractors (OAO) Nigeria Limited, with a directive for them to pay significant damages for their actions.
In a bid to rectify the damages caused, the judge has ordered Arab Contractors to compensate the plaintiffs with a sum of N100 million, along with additional general damages and costs of the action.
This groundbreaking judgement, delivered on 6 February, marks a significant victory for the plaintiffs and sets a precedent for upholding the rule of law in land disputes.
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