A Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Apo, Abuja, has vacated an earlier order freezing the bank accounts of the Abia State government.
Justice Bello Kawu, in an ex parte motion no: M/6686/2023, had barred all the banks from dealing with representatives of out-going Governor Okezie Ikpeazu pending the determination of the motion filed by Uche Eni’s lawyer, Johnmary C. Jideobi, against the Accountant-General of Abia State, Uche Ihediwa (SAN), the Commissioner for Finance and about 26 banks and financial institutions.
The suit seeks to permanently freeze the Abia sSate bank accounts over alleged diversion of public funds by the outgoing government of Governor Okezie Ikpeazu.
But in a motion of notice filed by Ihediwa, the government prayed the court to vacate the order made against the affected banks and financial institutions for want of jurisdiction and for being obtained mala fide (carried out in bad faith or with intent to deceive).
At the proceedings on Thursday, Ihediwa contended that the jurisdiction of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja does not touch another State.
He further argued that the applicant has not cited any instance of looting by the outgoing government but was making mere speculation to the court.
He urged the court to vacate the order so that civil servants could be paid by the governor, as well as for him to run his government efficiently.
However, Johnmary argued that his application was made in interest of the public.
Ruling on Thursday, Justice Kawu aligned with the submission of Ihediwa that civil servants should be paid.
“The Interim order is hereby vacated”, said Kawu while adjourning the main application to April 27, for hearing.