BENIN CITY – In a significant ruling, the Court of Appeal has granted the NBM of Africa Worldwide leave to appeal a Federal High Court joinder order, marking a crucial procedural win for the organization.
The decision allows the NBM to proceed with its challenge against the lower court’s ruling, which had ordered the joinder of its registered trustees to an existing lawsuit. The appellant’s counsel, Ezekwesiri Nwauwa, successfully argued for an extension of time to file the necessary appeal documents.
Despite opposition from the counsel for the 1st and 2nd respondents, the appellate court held that the NBM had demonstrated a “genuine intention” to exercise its constitutional right to appeal.
NBM spokesman Chike Ike hailed the ruling, stating it underscores the judiciary’s commitment to ensuring “that justice is not sacrificed on the altar of technicality.”
The forthcoming appeal will now determine the legality of the initial joinder order made by the Federal High Court, Benin Division.
