The Abia State High Court sitting in Umuahia the state capital, Presided over by Justice Benson Anya, on Friday adjourned a case of an alleged defamation brought against the member representing Aba South State constituency Hon Obinna Ichita, to March 11, 2022 for hearing.
The Project coordinator Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project Izuchukwu Onwughara, had approach the court accusing Ichita, of publishing an alleged defamatory articles against the agency and the state government.
It will be recall that the state High Court sitting in Umunneochi also presided over by Justice Benson Anya, had restrained Ichita, from further publishing the said defamatory statements against NEWMAP and the state government.
When the suit came up for hearing on Friday, the defendant's Counsel told the Court that a Statement of Defence has been filed, while reminding Justice Anya of an existing interlocutory Injuction order before his Court which restrained his client from expressing his views and opinion.
According to the defence Counsel, the Claimants had as at Friday Morning filed another motion before the Court to further extend the interlocutory Injuction order on the defendant
It was at that point that Justice Anya had to ask Ichite who was physically present at the Court room to appear before him for his cross examination.
Justice Anya who noted that it is the right of every citizen to freely in the use of the mouth to state about the state and his Community.
When asked by Justice Anya if he knows the implications associated with falsehood claims, Hon. Ichite said he has proof to his claims.
Hon. Ichite told the Court that as the member that represents Aba South State Constituency and that he has the mandate of his constituents to speak against any form of denial of government presence within his Constituency.
Justice Anya then adjouned the matter to 11th March, 2022 for further hearing.
End.
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