By Onyewuchi Ojinnaka
The Court of Appeal Abuja division on Thursday granted a request from the Federal Government and former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Justice Walter Onnoghen to settle out of court an appeal he filed challenging his removal/dismissal from office.
The granting of the request comes as both parties intensify efforts to amicably resolve the ongoing dispute.
Recall that in 2019, former President Muhammadu Buhari dismissed Onnoghen as CJN while he faced charges at the Code of Conduct Tribunal.
During Thursday’s proceedings, Dr. Ogwu Onoja (SAN), counsel for Onnoghen, informed the three-member panel that discussions aimed at a peaceful resolution were ongoing.
He noted that engagements had taken place as recently as Wednesday and expressed confidence in a positive outcome.
Onoja requested a one-month adjournment to finalize the settlement.
Responding, Tijani Gazali, representing the Federal Government, supported the request, affirming their intention to resolve the matter amicably.
The Presiding Justice Joseph. O. Oyewole directed the parties to prepare a documented settlement for the court’s approval once an agreement is reached. He emphasized that the terms must be filed before the next hearing.
The court then adjourned the case until November 4 for both parties to return with their proposed terms.
In 2019, Onnoghen was dismissed by the Federal Government while standing trial for false asset declaration at the Code of Conduct Tribunal, resulting in his removal and the forfeiture of undeclared assets.
Dissatisfied with the Tribunal’s ruling, Onnoghen approached the Appeal Court to challenge the decision that led to his ousting and the forfeiture of his bank accounts.