Court Awards N5 Million Against Anambra LG Chairman

On Tuesday, the Federal High Court in Awka delivered a judgment awarding N5 million in damages against Emeka Orji, the chairman of Onitsha South Local Government Area in Anambra State. The case, filed by Lake Petroleum Limited, alleged that the local government unlawfully demolished their shops and properties along Niger Street, impacting approximately 4,000 traders and causing significant financial losses.

The suit, numbered FHC/AWK/CS/75/2024, was initiated in response to the demolitions that occurred in 2024, which destroyed equipment worth millions of naira. The court found that the actions of the local government violated the fundamental rights of Lake Petroleum Limited and ordered a perpetual injunction to prevent further violations.

Counsel for Lake Petroleum, Charl Arinz of Centurion Law Practice, emphasized the judgment as a testament to the court's bravery in upholding justice against governmental tyranny. The ruling underscores the importance of protecting citizens' rights to own property without unjustified interference.