In a recent development, the Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed a suit that sought to compel the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) to investigate and prosecute Mr. Peter Obi for alleged breaches related to asset declaration. Justice Inyang Ekwo made a brief ruling, rejecting the suit on the grounds of lack of diligent prosecution.
The suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/44/23, was brought by Mr. Olukoya Ogungbeje, who identified as a human rights activist and lawyer. In his motion on notice filed on November 6, Ogungbeje sought an order of mandamus to compel the CCB to promptly exercise its constitutional and statutory duties by investigating and prosecuting Obi before the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT). The allegations against Obi pertained to purported breaches of constitutional provisions on asset declaration, including failure to declare offshore holdings and operating a foreign account while holding public office.
Ogungbeje had previously secured a motion ex-parte on November 1, allowing him to apply for an order of mandamus. The court directed him to file his application within seven days and to serve the CCB at least 14 days before the next adjourned date.
However, during the recent court session, neither the applicant nor his lawyer appeared, leading Justice Ekwo to strike out the suit. This decision comes after the court had granted the applicant leave to seek the order of mandamus in the earlier stages of the case. (NAN)