Court Adjourns Libel Suit Against Edo APC Chairman To February 7 2022

BY IKHILI EBALU, BENIN CITY

An Edo State High Court will on February 7, 2022 give a ruling whether it can entertain a N5 billion libel suit brought against the Edo State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Col. David Imuse, rtd.

The presiding Judge, Justice‎ V. O Eboreimen fixed the date after hearing a motion argued by Imuse’ Counsel, Austin Osarenkhoi, in which he challenged the jurisdiction of the court to entertain the suit.

Osarenkh‎oi who cited authorities to back his argument, contended that necessary procedure and requirements were not followed in filing the suit.

On his part, Counsel to the Claimant, Jackson Ehiabhi, adopted his written address and urged the court to adopt it in opposition to the 1st defendant’s motion.

But in his argument, Counsel to African Newspaper, Jaret Edema, aligned himself with the submission of 1st defendant’s Counsel and‎ urged the court to strike out the suit for failing to comply with conditions precedent to filing the action.

Joined in the suit instituted by the Akwa-Ibom INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mr. Mike Igini, are The African Newspaper of Nigeria PLC and The Sun Publishing Limited.