Justice Elias Abua of the High Court of Cross River State has dismissed a request from former finance minister, Chief Anthony Ani, who sought an interlocutory injunction to remove the Obong of Calabar, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V.
In his ruling on June 25, 2024, Justice Abua rejected the application to restrain Edidem Abasi-Out from performing his duties as the Obong of Calabar.
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He emphasized that an injunction against such a revered position requires unequivocal and irrefutable evidence, which was not provided.
“The office of the Obong of Calabar is highly esteemed throughout this state and beyond. To grant an injunction restraining someone from occupying it, the evidence must be manifestly clear and compelling,” Justice Abua said.
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He added that without substantial evidence from either party, the court cannot rule in favor of any claims or counterclaims, thus maintaining the status quo to prevent potential damage to the esteemed office.
The judge also highlighted that making such orders without a solid basis would cause “incalculable and avoidable damage” to the revered position.
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The case, suit number HC/278/2023, named Edidem Abasi-Otu V, Ntiero Edem Offiong Efiwat, Edem Ita Essien Ededem, the Government of Cross River State, and the Attorney-General of Cross River State as defendants.
Several Efik leaders, including Etubom Essien Ekpenyong Efiok, Etubom Okon Asuquo, and Etubom Micah Archibong, who were part of the 15-man Etubom Conclave that selected Edidem Abasi-Otu V as Obong in 2008, 2012, and 2013, also filed the suit.
Additionally, the court rejected the claimants’ request to prevent the Government of Cross River State from interfering with their activities.
