The Supreme Court, sitting in Abuja yesterday, in a panel led by Hon. Justice Inyang Okoro, JSC, directed the parties to return to the Court of Appeal for resolution of the contentious issue of legal representation. The apex court ordered that the matter be determined by the Court of Appeal and thereafter reported back to the Supreme Court on 26th January 2026.
Joining the Presiding Justice on the panel were Justices Jauro, Sankey, Adumehin, and Sadiq Umar, JJSC, all of whom concurred with the ruling.
In a firm admonition, the Supreme Court cautioned counsel that in debt recovery matters, debtors should be encouraged to discharge their obligations rather than resorting to frivolous appeals and applications designed to delay repayment.
On the issue of representation, Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN, appeared purporting to represent Neconde, while Muiz Banire, SAN, appeared for Nestoil. Their authority is being challenged by Ayo Olorunfemi, SAN, leading Ame Ogie for Neconde, and Ayoola Ajayi, SAN, leading M.B. Ganiyu for Nestoil.
For Ernest Azudialu-Obiejesi, Chinonye Obiagwu, SAN, appeared, while Kehinde Ogunyumiju, SAN, led Ademola Abimbola, SAN. Chikasolu Ojukwu, SAN, represented Nnenna Obiejesi.
Also present in court was the Receiver/Manager, Abubakar Sulu-Gambari, SAN.
Representing FBNQuest Merchant Bank Limited and First Trustees were Babajide Koku, SAN, Victor Ogude, SAN, and Omosanya Popoola, SAN, leading Toheeb Ipaye, Kamaal Fagbemi, Kehinde Wilkey, and Buchi Ofulue.
Today’s proceedings underscore the Supreme Court’s clear message: a debt owed must be paid, and the courts will not condone dilatory tactics by debtors or their counsel.
