Abuja, Sept. 19, 2024 (TheGavel) — The Court of Appeal in Abuja has approved a request from the Federal Government and former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Justice Walter Onnoghen to settle an appeal regarding his removal from office out of court.
This decision comes as both parties intensify efforts to amicably resolve the ongoing dispute. In 2019, former President Muhammadu Buhari dismissed Onnoghen while he faced charges at the Code of Conduct Tribunal.
During Thursday’s proceedings, Dr. Ogwu Onoja, SAN, counsel for Onnoghen, informed the three-member panel that discussions aimed at a peaceful resolution were ongoing. He noted that engagements had taken place as recently as Wednesday and expressed confidence in a positive outcome.
Onoja requested a one-month adjournment to finalize the settlement. Tijani Gazali, representing the Federal Government, supported this request, affirming their intention to resolve the matter amicably.
Presiding Justice J. O. Oyewole directed the parties to prepare a documented settlement for the court’s approval once an agreement is reached. He emphasized that the terms must be filed before the next hearing.
The court has adjourned the case until November 4 for both parties to return with their proposed terms.
In 2019, Onnoghen was convicted by the Federal Government for false asset declaration at the Code of Conduct Tribunal, resulting in his removal and the forfeiture of undeclared assets. Dissatisfied with the Tribunal’s ruling, Onnoghen is appealing the decision that led to his ousting and the forfeiture of his bank accounts. (NAN)
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