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Port Harcourt High Court Dismisses Police’s Objection in Edison Ehie Case, Upholds Jurisdiction

The Rivers State High Court’s Port Harcourt division has rejected a preliminary objection filed by the Nigerian Police contesting the court’s jurisdiction in a fundamental rights lawsuit initiated by Edison Ehie, the Chief of Staff to the Rivers State Governor. The objection, presented by Police counsel Celestine Dickson, was deemed without merit by Justice Sika Aprioku. The court affirmed its jurisdiction, dismissing the objection and ruling in favor of Edison Ehie, while also awarding costs.

Published

2 months ago

March 1, 2024

Stella Charles Akupue

Port Harcourt High Court, dismissal, objection, Nigerian Police, jurisdiction, Edison Ehie, Chief of Staff, Rivers State Governor, lawsuit, legal ruling, court decision

In a significant legal development, the Port Harcourt division of the Rivers State High Court has rendered a consequential ruling in a case involving the Nigerian Police v. Edison Ehie, the Chief of Staff to the Rivers State Governor. This ruling emerged following a preliminary objection brought by the Police, through its counsel Celestine Dickson, challenging the court’s jurisdiction to hear a fundamental rights suit filed by Mr. Ehie.

In the suit, Mr. Dickson contested the court’s authority to adjudicate on the matter, raising concerns about the non-joinder of the Nigeria Police Force as a party to the suit. However, the court, under the leadership of Justice Sika Aprioku, has upheld its jurisdiction, deeming the objection to be without merit. Justice Aprioku further clarified that the inclusion of the Commissioner of Police as a party to the suit sufficed, rendering the objection irrelevant.

In a firm stance against what it deemed a frivolous objection, the court dismissed the Police’s application, branding it as a waste of judicial time. Additionally, the court awarded costs amounting to one hundred thousand naira in favor of Edison Ehie, signaling a rebuke of the Police’s attempt to challenge the court’s authority.

Port Harcourt High Court Dismisses Police's Objection in Edison Ehie Case, Upholds Jurisdiction

Furthermore, in a move that underscores the court’s commitment to protecting Mr. Ehie’s rights, Justice Aprioku granted his prayers, as presented by his counsel Damian Okoro SAN. These prayers sought to restrain the police from arresting, detaining, harassing, or inviting Mr. Ehie based on charges linked to the alleged destruction of the Rivers State House of Assembly Chambers.

This ruling comes amidst a backdrop of heightened tensions and legal maneuvers, particularly following recent events where the Rivers State Police Command paraded the remains of a cult kingpin, known as 2Baba, in connection with the murder of DPO Bako Angbashim. It’s worth noting that Mr. Ehie has also been implicated in this case, further complicating the legal trial.

In response to the court’s ruling, Celestine Dickson, counsel to the Police, acknowledged the wisdom of the court’s decision, indicating a willingness to respect the judgment. However, he hinted at potential further action, stating that they would study the judgment and advise their clients accordingly.

This ruling marks a pivotal moment in the legal proceedings surrounding Mr. Ehie’s case and sheds light on the complexities and intricacies of legal jurisdiction and fundamental rights protection within the Nigerian legal system. As the case continues to unfold, it will undoubtedly draw significant attention and scrutiny, shaping the legal landscape in Rivers State and beyond.

Exciting news!

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