Admin l Saturday, March 25, 2023
IKEJA, Nigeria – The Lagos State Government has reacted to the judgement of a Federal High Court which awarded N5 million against the Neighborhood Watch, one of the outfits of the state government.
In a statement, Mrs. Grace Alo, Public Relations Officer in Ministry of Justice said the state government has applied for the case file and studying it to determine the next course of action.
She said it is normal for counsel representing the state to file stay of execution, obtained the judgement to determine how to proceed on the matter.
See her statement below:
1.On the 14th of March 2023, the Federal High Court in Suit No FHC/L/CS/ 1862/2021, filed by Mr Clement Adedotun, delivered judgment against Lagos State Neighborhood Agency, Lagos State Government, Attorney General Lagos State and Nigeria Police.
2.During the hearing of the matter , the Lagos State Government opposed the claims of the Applicant on grounds of law and facts.
3.The court, however, upheld the contention of the Applicant.
4.As is customary when a judgment is delivered against the State Government, counsel handling the matter is enjoined to file an appeal (a right provided by the Constitution) along with an application to stay execution of the judgment in order to protect and reserve the rights available to the State Government under the law.
5.Filing the appeal and asking for a stay of the judgment do not, however, prevent the management of the Ministry of Justice upon obtaining a copy of the judgment from further reviewing the matter and deciding whether to proceed with or withdraw the appeal.
6.The process of taking that decision is underway and once a definitive position is taken members of the public will be notified.
7.The State Government reassures the public that in carrying out its duties, it will continue to be guided by the rule of law.
Grace Alo
PRO
Ministry of Justice
