The Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama has directed that a hearing notice be formally served on the All Progressives Congress (APC) in an ongoing lawsuit seeking the refund of ₦10 million paid for a nomination form by a former aspirant.
The order was issued by Justice Yusuf Halilu during a session on Monday, after the APC failed to appear in court or provide legal representation in the case brought by Mr. Sunny Moniedafe, a former contender for the position of APC Deputy National Chairman (North).
Moniedafe, in suit number FCT/HC/CV/2434/2024, is demanding the refund of the ₦10 million he paid in 2022 to obtain the party’s nomination form ahead of its national convention held on March 26 of that year.
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According to the plaintiff, party leadership, under the administration of then-President Muhammadu Buhari, reached a consensus that the Deputy National Chairman (North) slot would go to a candidate from Borno State. As part of that arrangement, aspirants were instructed to step down, with a promise that those who complied would be refunded their nomination fees.
Despite his withdrawal in line with the party’s directive, Moniedafe alleges the APC failed to honour its commitment. “The leadership of the defendant reneged on its promise and blatantly refused, failed, and neglected to refund the ₦10 million despite repeated demands,” he stated.
Both Moniedafe and his counsel, Mr. Okoi Obono-Obla, were present at Monday’s hearing. However, the APC was neither represented in court nor had any legal counsel on record during the session.
Justice Halilu noted the absence and observed that there was no evidence the party had been served the hearing notice. “I can see no proof of service here,” he remarked, before directing the court registrar to ensure the notice is served promptly by contacting the defendant’s legal team.
In response, Moniedafe’s lawyer assured the court of their readiness to engage in the proceedings once proper service is effected. “My lord, we are very diligent. If we are served, we will respond immediately,” Obono-Obla said.
The court also acknowledged an application by the APC requesting an extension of time to file necessary documents. Justice Halilu granted the request, allowing the party additional time to respond.
The matter has been adjourned to July 15, 2025, for further hearing, with a focus on verifying whether the APC has been properly served with the court notice.
