**Injunction to stop encroachment on the Centenary Economic Zone in Abuja**
A recent court ruling has issued an injunction to prevent further trespass on the Centenary Economic Zone site in Abuja. Justice Inyang Ekwo also issued an order restraining the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and Arab Contractors (OAO) from further encroachment on the site.
Judge Ekwo’s decision annuls and rejects in its entirety all actions, administrative decisions and controls exercised, including the forced occupation of the premises by OAO on the instructions of the Minister, the FCTA and the FCDA, without the prior consent of the complainants and the predominant approval of the Nigerian Transformation Zones Authority (NEPZA).
The judge held that the illegal occupation contradicted sections 4 and 13 of the NEPZA Act Cap N107 LFN 2004, the provisions of section 5 (3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), and was therefore unconstitutional, illegal, contrary to law, null and void.
He also issued an order prohibiting the exercise of any executive or regulatory control over the area, which occupies a plot of 1,264.78 hectares, located on Airport Road, Wawa District, Cadastral Zone E24, FCT, Abuja .
**Conflict and financial reparations**
Arab Contractors (OAO) is ordered to immediately vacate the portion of the Centenary City Free Zone Economic Zone which it illegally occupies on the instructions of the 5th, 6th and 7th respondents, contrary to the provisions of sections 4 and 13 of the NEPZA Act, without the express approval of NEPZA. Furthermore, the company is ordered to pay the plaintiffs the sum of N100 million for the forcible invasion and destruction of the master plan of the area, designed by Eagle Hills Properties LLC of the United Arab Emirates amounting to N35 million. of dollars. The judge also ordered the company to pay N50 million in general damages, as well as N5 million towards costs of the action.
He also ordered interest on the entire judgment sum at the rate of 10% per annum, from the delivery of the judgment until the entire sum is fully liquidated.
**Context and importance of the decision**
This court decision is very significant as it ensures the protection of the rights of the plaintiffs and prevents any illegal interference in the Centenary Economic Zone in Abuja. It also underlines the importance of respecting the laws and regulations in force to ensure the proper functioning of special economic zones and development projects.
In conclusion, this injunction marks an important step in defending the interests of the plaintiffs and the legality in the development of the Centenary Economic Zone in Abuja.
What do you think of this court decision and its implications for economic development in Abuja? Please feel free to share your comments and perspectives.