In a recent development, a 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 over allegations related to a breach of asset declaration. The suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/44/23, was struck out by Justice Inyang Ekwo on the grounds of lack of diligent prosecution.

Mr. Olukoya Ogungbeje, self-identified as a human rights activist and lawyer, had filed the suit in which he sought an order of mandamus compelling the CCB to promptly investigate and prosecute Peter Obi for alleged breaches of constitutional provisions on assets declaration. Ogungbeje accused Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the February 25 presidential election, of failing to declare offshore holdings and associated assets. Additionally, he alleged that Obi operated a foreign account while holding a public office and served as a director of Next International (UK) Limited for 14 months after becoming the governor of Anambra, contravening relevant laws.

The court had initially granted Ogungbeje’s motion ex-parte on November 1, allowing him to apply for an order of mandamus against the CCB. However, at the recent court session, neither the applicant nor his lawyer was present, leading Justice Ekwo to strike out the suit. (NAN)