Isuochi, Umunneochi Judicial Division, Abia State (April 2025) – In a landmark interlocutory ruling delivered at the High Court of Abia State sitting in Nkwoagu Isuochi, His Lordship Hon. Justice Chido Nwakanma has granted an order restraining the defendants and any of their agents from proceeding with surveying or parceling of the disputed Obinolu land, pending the final determination of the suit brought by Don Destine Global Links Ltd.
Background of the Suit
The suit, filed as HUM/I1I/2025, pits Don Destine Global Links Ltd (Claimant/Applicant) against ten respondents, led by H.R.H. Eze Amb. L. O. Uche and Barr. Chris Otum, in their capacities as President-General and Secretary of the Obinolu Town Development Union (OTDU) respectively. Also cited are Engr. Ekene Chisindi Oluegburu, Mr. Uche Obieze, Rev. Israel Ukachukwu, Hon. Chiagozie Egbu, Mr. Michael Anyikwa, Chief Sir Etomchukwu Alaekwe, Engr. Ndudilim Chukwu, and Engr. Onyekachi Eke.
According to court records, Don Destine Global Links Ltd approached the court seeking to protect its interests in a parcel of land located at Obinolu, after learning of moves by the town union leadership to engage surveyors and effect parcellation without its consent.
Court Proceedings and Appearances
At the ruling session, Counsel Chidiebere Nmeregini Esq. appeared for the Claimant, while Prof. I. Okoronye with E. U. Igwe Esq. represented the first, fourth through tenth respondents. The second respondent was represented by D. E. Agu Esq.
Justice Nwakanma, having considered the pleadings, the evidence tendered, and the written addresses from both sides, concluded that without the interlocutory injunction, irreversible steps might be taken on the land in dispute, thereby rendering any final judgment ineffective.
Terms of the Injunction
The Court Order specifically provides:
“That the Defendants/Respondents or their agents and privies are restrained from engaging vendors, companies etc. for the purpose of surveying and parcellating the Obinolu Land pending the determination of this suit.”
This directive effectively halts all activities related to the subdivision or development of the land until the substantive issues of title and entitlement are conclusively resolved by the court.
Signatories and Authentication
The ruling was formally issued under the seal of the High Court and bears the signature of Hon. Justice Chido Nwakanma as the presiding judge. It is counter-signed by Dr. Anyanwu Chikodi, the Court Administrator, ensuring its immediate effect and enforceability.
Implications for Stakeholders
This injunction underscores the court’s role in preserving the status quo where there is a credible threat of prejudice. For Don Destine Global Links Ltd, it secures a legal shield against any unilateral actions by the town union that could compromise its claimed interest. Conversely, the respondents are legally barred from pursuing any further steps toward land parceling or development until the suit’s substantive issues are adjudicated.
As this matter progresses, both parties are expected to return to court for further hearings on the merits. Observers note that the final determination will hinge on documentary evidence of title, ancestral claims, and adherence to statutory procedures for land transactions in Abia State.
Next Steps
A date for the full hearing has been adjourned, with both sides instructed to file and exchange documents within the timelines prescribed by the Rules of Court. Stakeholders and interested members of the public are advised to await further announcements from the registrar’s office regarding subsequent sittings.