A Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Maitama, Abuja, witnessed an unusual courtroom exchange on Tuesday in the case of Asabe Waziri, who alleges she was illegally evicted from her Maitama residence.

The drama unfolded when Abubakar Mohammed, a lawyer briefed only to observe proceedings, stood up and attempted to address the court regarding perceived delays in the case. Victor Giwa, one of the defendants, objected, insisting that Mohammed had no right to speak as he was only supposed to observe. Giwa also revealed that Mohammed had previously worked as his staff and was now appearing for the complainant.

Justice Samira Bature sided with Giwa, stating that she did not officially record Mohammed’s intervention.

The proceedings were further disrupted by the absence of the third defendant, Edith Erhunmuuse, who reportedly could not attend due to ill health. As a result, the judge adjourned the case to April 24, 2024, emphasizing that no further delays would be tolerated.

Justice Bature also instructed that:

All pending applications challenging the court’s jurisdiction will be addressed when the prosecution is present.

The third defendant’s counsel, Mr. C.C. Onyechere must ensure his client appears on the next adjourned date.

The prosecution must be properly served with the necessary notices.

The case has faced multiple adjournments previously, including delays caused by defendants’ legal representation issues and the absence of counsel on official assignments. Justice Bature stressed the importance of fairness and that both parties must be given the opportunity to be heard.

The next hearing is now scheduled for April 24, 2024.