Court Dismisses Objection in ANLCA Leadership Dispute, Upholds Adewusi’s Mandate

Justice Akintunde Savage of a Lagos High Court in Ikeja has dismissed a preliminary objection challenging the suit filed by the current executive of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), Muritala Mohammed Airport Command (MMAC) chapter.

The ruling paves the way for the association’s executives, led by Prince Bamgbala Abayomi Adewusi, to continue in office. Justice Savage ruled that the objection was without merit, noting that the present case involves different parties and causes of action from a previous judgment delivered by the Badagry division. The court also awarded ₦25,000 in legal costs to the claimants.

The suit’s applicants include Adewusi, Davis Ben Chukwuneye, Sylvester Osa Iyamu, Lekwauwa Ifeanyi Valentine, and Okere, while respondents are Akindele Pius Temitope, Alhaji Taiwo Mustapha, Prince Over Chukwurah, Mr. Emenike Kingsley Nwokeoji, Elder Olumide Francis Fakalu, and other members of ANLCA’s National Executive Committee.

Following the judgment, Adewusi expressed gratitude to members for their support during the leadership dispute and urged the immediate reopening of the MMAC secretariat. He stated that both the court ruling and the findings of the Nigerian Police affirmed him as the legitimate chairman.

Speaking to reporters, Adewusi emphasized that the court confirmed his tenure remains valid and that attempts to remove him by his opponents failed due to a misinterpretation of the association’s constitution. He added that a pending appeal does not undermine his authority.

Adewusi also thanked the National President of ANLCA, Mr. Emenike Nwokeoji, the Inspector General of Police, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), the Customs Area Controller, and the Commissioner of Police, Airport Command, for their intervention during the crisis.

He called on members and opponents to prioritise unity, professionalism, and internal democracy. The chairman further directed the immediate return of all association property currently held by individuals, warning that vehicles and other items not returned within five working days will be considered missing or stolen. He stressed that the directive aims to restore order and accountability, not to victimize anyone.

“Our priority is to maintain harmony and safeguard the integrity of our operations. Every member should contribute positively to the association’s progress so that we can all benefit from a stable and democratically run organisation,” Adewusi said.