A Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned a ₦2 billion fundamental rights enforcement suit filed by Mr. Lucky Okodeh, former Caretaker Chairman of Southern Ijaw Local Government in Bayelsa, against the Nigerian Army until November 28. The case was adjourned by Justice Binta Nyako after Okodeh’s counsel, Asmau Yunusa, requested more time to respond to a counter affidavit submitted by the Chief of Defence Staff’s (CDS) lawyer, Mimi Ayua.
Okodeh’s lawsuit, filed on May 3, 2024, accuses the CDS, Gen. Christopher Musa, and the Chief of Army Staff (CAS), Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, of allegedly publishing his photograph among those wanted in connection with the murder of 17 soldiers in Okuama, Delta State, in March 2024. Okodeh claims that the wrongful publication has harmed his political career, forcing him into hiding and leading him to withdraw as a candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the April 11 local government elections.
In his suit, Okodeh seeks ₦2 billion in damages for the violation of his personal liberty and dignity. He also requests a public apology from the Nigerian Army and a perpetual injunction restraining them from arresting him, stating that he is a law-abiding citizen with no criminal record.
Justice Nyako suggested that the issue could be resolved amicably, noting that it may not warrant the use of taxpayers’ money in litigation. The court ordered that the 2nd respondent, Lt. Gen. Lagbaja, be served with a hearing notice ahead of the November 28 session.