The High Court of Justice in Edo State has granted Comrade Osakpamwan Eriyo leave to sue First Bank of Nigeria PLC over the freezing of his bank account.
According to the court documents, Eriyo is seeking several reliefs, including a declaration that the freezing of his account was unlawful and a gross violation of his right to own property. He is also seeking an order directing the bank to unfreeze his account and pay him N2 billion in damages.
Eriyo’s counsel, Douglas Ogbankwa Esq., argued that the bank’s actions were a breach of his client’s fundamental rights to acquire and own property anywhere in Nigeria. “The freezing of the Applicant’s bank account without any order of court violates the Applicant’s Fundamental Right to acquire and own property anywhere in Nigeria,” Ogbankwa said.
The court has fixed a date for the hearing of the suit, and the bank has been put on notice to respond to the allegations. The outcome of the case is being eagerly awaited, as it could have implications for the banking industry and the protection of customers’ rights.
Eriyo is seeking justice and compensation for what he believes was an unlawful action by the bank. The case highlights the importance of banks following due process and respecting customers’ rights.
