In a significant development, the Federal High Court sitting in Lagos has adjourned the highly publicised case filed by Ronchess Global Resources against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Kaduna State government to October 11, 2024. The case, which has been generating intense interest, revolves around a disputed road construction contract awarded to Ronchess Global Resources by the Kaduna State government.

Ronchess had approached the court seeking redress over the alleged unilateral termination of the contract by the state government. During proceedings, the court granted Ronchess an order restraining the EFCC, Inspector General of Police (IGP) and the Kaduna State House of Assembly from taking any actions that could jeopardise the fundamental rights of the company’s directors or interfere with the subject matter of the case.

In a related development, the court joined the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Offences Commission (ICPC) and the State Security Service (SSS) as respondents in the case, following an application by Ronchess. This move is expected to broaden the scope of the legal battle.

Counsel to Ronchess, Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa (SAN), informed the court about the joinder of the ICPC and DSS, prompting the EFCC and Kaduna State government to request time to file amended processes reflecting the joined parties.

Additionally, the court struck out a separate case filed against Oriete Chris, which was deemed an attempt to intimidate a human rights activist. Adegboruwa had filed a notice of discontinuance in respect of the case. The adjournment sets the stage for further legal battles between Ronchess and the government agencies.