From Noah Ebije, Kaduna
A Kaduna State high court yesterday fixed June 19, 2017, for pre-trial conference (PTC) between a Kaduna-based businessman, Mr. Lawrence Enyesiobi, and former Military Administrator (MILAD) of Kebbi State, Col. John Ubah (retd), in a case of defamation.
When the case came up for mention before Justice Bashir Sukola, he adjourned the case for PTC.
Enyesiobi had, through his counsel, Mr. Chris A. Ekhasemomhe, dragged Ubah to Kaduna High Court No. 10 for defamation, claiming N10 million general damages for libel.
However, in an interview with newsmen shortly after the adjournment, counsel to the defendant, Mr. Ogwuche Andrew, said the PTC would provide opportunity for both parties to trash out issues not in dispute.
Enyesiobi had, in suit number KDH/KAD/497/2002 between him and Ubah over a land dispute, received favourable judgment delivered by Justice Hajara T.D. Gwadah of Kaduna High Court 12.
Ubah, not happy over the court’s decision, petitioned the Director-General, Department of State Security, Abuja. He also petitioned the chairman of the Presidential Advisory Committee Against Corruption, over the case.
Enyesiobi, claiming that the content of the letters were defamatory, is demanding the sum of N10 million as general damages and an apology in the form of type-written letter to all the parties who received the letter as well an order of injunction restraining the defendant from further publishing the letters.