Court Adjourns NBM Of Africa Human Rights Suit Against Edo Governor To June 16, 2025

The Federal High Court in Benin has adjourned the human rights case of NBM of Africa against the Edo State Governor.

At the sitting on June 4, 2025, the court heard initial submissions from parties in the suit marked FHC/13/CS/48/2025.

The NBM of Africa is challenging the demolition of its secretariat, which it describes as a violation of its fundamental human rights.

Leading the legal representation for the Applicants in court was Chief Reginald Asiuwhu, accompanied by 26 other legal practitioners.

Among them were Raphael Chukwuzubelu, Ikem Onyeka, C.E. Ojotule, and S.W. Onoghwiegbe.

Others present included Emmanuel Atowo, Chikwado Peter Enyigwe, Magnus Urueshone, Udoudom Christian, Tsaku Ayaka Michael, Emeka Kingsley Anueyiagu, Peter Ajonye Samuel, Tobenna Kingsley Nwokwu, C.O. Ekumankama, O.J. Edegba, E.O. Uhunamure, L.O. Eze, H.J. Momodu, Uwa Okoh, Paul Badairi, E. Ehijele, Emeka Chigbo, Irunoje Garuba, A. Akhere, L. Omorodion, A.C. Okhademeh, I.J. Andrew Imiefoh (Mrs).

The 1st Defendant, the Edo State Governor, was represented by a legal team led by H.A. Bello, SAN, and J.E. Ogagaworia.

The 2nd Defendant appeared through counsel O.C. Igbinedion, while the 3rd Defendant had no legal representation in court.

The court bailiff confirmed all parties were served but admitted misplacing proof of service for the 3rd Defendant.

Both the Governor and the 2nd Defendant acknowledged service but said they were only recently briefed by their clients.

H.A. Bello, SAN, told the court he was briefed on June 3, 2025, despite earlier service on May 23, 2025.

The judge frowned at the delay and slow pace from the Defendants’ side, warning against further adjournments.

The court granted a short adjournment to June 16, 2025, for definite hearing and ordered all filings be completed.

The court made it clear the next sitting will not be shifted, and responses must be filed before the new date.

In response to journalists after the preliminary hearing, a representative of the NBM of Africa said they expect the court to protect its members’ rights and address the alleged misuse of power.