SAN FRANCISCO, May 24, (THEWILL) – A Federal High Court in Lagos has now fixed June 6, to reopen hearing in a suit by Buruji Kashamu, seeking to stop his extradition to the U.S., on alleged drug related charges.
Mr Kashamu, who is the senator representing Ogun East Senatorial District at the National Assembly, had, in his suit labelled FHC/L/CS/930/2018, joined the following as respondents: the Inspector General of Police, Commissioner of Police Lagos Police Command, Director General State Security Service (DSS), National Drug law Enforcement Agency NDLEA, and the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF).
He is urging the court to restrain the respondents and their agents from arresting or detaining him, in any manner whatsoever, or interfering with his right to personal liberty and freedom of movement.
Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke had since taken arguments in the suit from respective parties after which the court had reserved judgment until April 29.
On April 29, judgment could not be delivered in the suit as the period fell within the Easter vacation, and the court did not sit.
The matter was consequently, adjourned until May 10.
On May 10, Ichakpa Oigoga was the only counsel who appeared on the side of the defence, and he announced appearance for the NDLEA.
The court had then asked him if he was aware of a letter written by applicant seeking to reopen trial. He told the court that he was not aware.
Justice Aneke had then asked the registrar to show him a copy of the letter, adding that since a letter had already been presented, the court had a duty to hear parties.
After reading the letter, Mr Oigoga informed the court that defence would file its counter affidavit in opposition.
The Court had, consequently, adjourned the case for hearing.
At the resumed hearing of the case, Mr Kashamu’s lawyer, Ifeoma Esom, informed the court of plaintiff’s motion, seeking to reopen hearing in the suit.
She told the court that the application was based on the discovery of new facts which she said would assist the court in doing justice in the suit.
In response NDLEA counsel, J.N Sunday, admitted service of the application and told the court that he had already filed its response.
Mr Aneke consequently set down the case for hearing on June 6.
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