The Edo Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has dragged the state Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Jarret Tenebe, to court over alleged takeover PDP secretariat
The PDP accused APC Chairman of the alleged invasion, eviction, and unlawful takeover of the PDP’s secretariat located at No. 49, Airport Road, Benin.
The PDP is asking the court to issue a perpetual injunction restraining Tenebe and his agents from further trespassing or disrupting activities at the secretariat premises.
In the writ of summons from the Chamber of A.O. Edeko and Co, released to newsmen on Wednesday in Benin, the PDP demanded over N900 million in damages, including N300 million in special damages.
The special damages relate to office equipment, including computers, generators, laptops, and other valuables allegedly carted away or destroyed during the alleged forceful takeover of the party’s premises.
The PDP further prayed the court for “a declaration that it remains the rightful occupant of No. 49, Airport Road, Benin, having leased same lawfully.
The lease, it noted, was executed with Mr. Enoma Agbontaen, the landlord, remained valid and legally binding between the parties as of the date.
It also prayed for “a declaration that the violent eviction of the claimant and its staff from the premises constitutes an act of unlawful trespass under law.
The PDP stated that the forceful eviction on January 16, 2025, breached its right to quiet enjoyment of its rented property located on Airport Road.
It, therefore, asked for general damages of N500 million for the violation of its tenancy rights and the unlawful disruption of its activities.
It also sought “an order for payment of N322,765, as special damages for office equipment destroyed and carted away during the (alleged) illegal invasion of its property.
These items allegedly taken included computers, generators, laptops, printers, and several essential office items, which the Defendant and his hired agents allegedly looted and vandalized.
The PDP also demanded N3,000, daily as cost for emergency alternative office space at Etano Hotel, Benin City, from January 16 to February 13, 2025
The total for thirty days amounted to N90,000,, while it further asked for N5,000 daily from February 13, 2025, until judgment was delivered.
The party also sought “an order granting and restoring the Claimant’s rights to possess and occupy No. 49, Airport Road, Benin City, Edo State.
The PDP asked the court for “a perpetual injunction restraining the Defendant, his agents, servants, or persons acting on his behalf from further trespassing or interfering with the property.” (NAN)