Rivers State High Court Dismisses Fundamental Rights Case Against IYC President

A Rivers State High Court sitting in Port Harcourt has dismissed a Fundamental Rights Enforcement suit filed by Mr. Mao Nangi O, the former Secretary General of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), against the IYC President, Sir Jonathan Lokpobiri Snr, and four others.

Nangi had alleged a breach of his fundamental rights and sought ₦10 million in damages from the respondents. However, after hearing arguments from both parties, the presiding judge, Justice B. S. Kpokpan, ruled against him and dismissed the case.

In delivering the judgment, the court agreed with the argument presented by Ebilade Obiri, Esq., counsel for the 5th respondent, that Nangi had failed to establish any violation of his fundamental rights in his supporting affidavit. Additionally, the court noted that the applicant did not effectively counter the significant issues raised in the 5th respondent’s counter-affidavit.

Furthermore, the judge ruled that the 1st to 4th respondents could not be prevented from carrying out their constitutional duties. As a result, the case was dismissed, and Nangi was ordered to pay ₦300,000 in costs to the 5th respondent, Sir Jonathan Lokpobiri.

The ruling brings an end to the legal challenge, affirming the position of the IYC leadership while imposing financial penalties on the applicant for pursuing the case.