In a recent judgment, the Federal High Court in Abuja dismissed a lawsuit seeking ₦1 billion in damages against former President Muhammadu Buhari and ex-CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele over the controversial 2023 Naira redesign policy.
Legal Challenge Over Naira Redesign Policy
A legal practitioner, Mr. Uthman Isa Tochukwu, had dragged Buhari and Emefiele to court, claiming the 2023 Naira redesign initiative caused him severe hardship.
Tochukwu alleged that his fundamental rights,including freedom of movement and personal dignity,were violated during the period when access to old naira notes was restricted.
According to the plaintiff, between January and March 2023, he could not access his funds held in two commercial banks due to the cash scarcity that followed the currency change.
Plaintiff Demands ₦1 Billion Compensation and Apology
In addition to demanding ₦1 billion in damages, Tochukwu asked the court for a perpetual injunction preventing the Federal Government from withholding the old ₦200, ₦500, and ₦1,000 notes.
He also sought a court order mandating Buhari and Emefiele to publicly apologize through two major national newspapers for the hardship caused.
Court Throws Out the Case for Lack of Prosecution
However, during Monday’s hearing, Justice Inyang Ekwo struck out the case, citing the plaintiff’s lack of diligence.
The court observed that Tochukwu had consistently failed to attend court sessions or provide legal representation without offering any explanation.
Mr. Chikelue Amasiani, counsel for Emefiele and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), informed the court about the plaintiff’s persistent absence since the suit was filed in 2023.
He urged the court to dismiss the case, a request that Justice Ekwo granted, bringing an end to the legal battle.
Key Takeaway
The dismissal marks another chapter in the controversies that followed the 2023 Naira redesign, a policy that significantly disrupted Nigeria’s economy and daily life during its implementation.
What are your thoughts on the court’s decision and the impact of the Naira redesign?
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