On Thursday, the Court of Appeal in Abuja granted approval for the Federal Government and former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Walter Onnoghen, to pursue a settlement regarding the appeal filed by Onnoghen challenging his removal from office.
During the hearing, Dr. Ogwu Onoja, lead counsel for Onnoghen, informed the three-member panel that discussions between the two parties have been ongoing, with conversations continuing up until September 18. He expressed optimism about reaching a resolution and requested a one-month adjournment to finalize the settlement.
Tijani Gazali, representing the Federal Government, supported Onoja’s request, affirming their intention to settle the matter amicably. He stated, “My Lords, I wish to humbly confirm the information. It is our position to settle the matter out of court.”
The court instructed both parties to document the terms of their settlement and submit them before the adjourned date, ensuring they can be adopted as the court’s judgment. The next hearing is scheduled for November 4.
Justice Onnoghen was removed from his position by former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2019 following a charge related to false asset declaration. The Code of Conduct Tribunal found him guilty, resulting in his removal and the forfeiture of undeclared assets, including five bank accounts, to the Federal Government.
Written By; Christopher Emuakpeje