A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has ordered a halt to all development activities on the controversial Apo Resettlement Market Scheme, a multi-million naira project situated at Plot 1729, Cadastral Zone E27, Apo, Abuja.
Justice Yusuf Halilu, granted an interlocutory injunction restraining AMAC Investment and Property Development Company Limited, Commercial Properties Ltd, Manillah Integrated Partners Ltd, and their agents from carrying out further work on the market site pending the determination of a legal dispute surrounding the project.
The injunction was sought by Techs and Concretes Nigeria Ltd and its Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Shuaibu Omeiza Musari, who allege a breach of a joint venture agreement by Manillah Integrated Partners.
According to court filings, Techs and Concretes claimed that while they were designated as the financier, co-developer, and sole marketer of the market, Manillah Integrated Partners, named as the developer in the agreement, went behind to unilaterally commence the market’s construction.
In his ruling, Justice Halilu noted that there was indeed a signed agreement between the parties and held that Techs and Concretes had a legal right to seek protection of their interests under the contract.
“From what has played out, as contained in the respective affidavits... I am fortified to say that there is indeed an agreement which both parties have signed... The second defendant/applicant (Techs and Concretes Ltd) is entitled, in law, to rely on the same as the basis for establishing legal interest,”; Justice Halilu stated.
He further ruled that the balance of convenience tilted in favour of the applicant and emphasized that the injunction was granted in the interest of justice and fair play.
