The planned trial of Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Walter Onnoghen at the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) suffered a setback yesterday as a Federal High Court, Abuja, ordered a halt to proceedings.The CJN, who was facing a six-count charge of alleged false declaration of assets, had been scheduled to appear at the tribunal. He was however absent.
Shortly after the tribunal adjourned till January 22, the Federal High Court granted a prayer for an interim order of injunction, restraining the defendants, whether by themselves or their agents, servants, privies or otherwise howsoever described from arresting, arraigning, prosecuting, charging or trying the CJN, giving effect to charge number CCT/ABJ/01/19 before the second defendant, pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice.
The Incorporated Trustees of International Association of Student Economists and Management filed the motion. Defendants in the matter include the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), CCT, Chairman of the Code Of Conduct Bureau (CCB) and the Inspector General of Police.Justice N.E Maha ordered that in the meantime, parties should maintain the status quo that existed as at yesterday and should not take any steps that would interfere with the subject matter of the suit pending the hearing and determination of the motion on motive. He adjourned the matter till January 17 for hearing. Read more