A Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed July 22 for further proceedings in the N10 billion fundamental rights suit filed by Nollywood actor Emeka Ike against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and Lere Olayinka, media aide to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
The matter, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1272/2026, was heard on Thursday before Justice S.O. Ibrahim.
During the proceedings, Emeka Ike’s lawyer, L.T. Adeh, informed the court that the first respondent had already filed a response to the suit. He added that hearing notices had been served on both respondents but noted that INEC was not represented in court, prompting his request for an adjournment.
Counsel to the first respondent, Akpama Ekwe, said he was prepared to proceed with the case and did not object to the request. Adeh also told the court that he would file a reply to the first respondent’s counter-affidavit within the next two days.
Justice Ibrahim granted the application, explaining that the adjournment would ensure fair hearing by giving INEC another opportunity to appear before the court.
Although Ekwe argued that the electoral commission could not be compelled to attend, the judge maintained his decision and adjourned the case until July 22 for further mention.
The court also directed that INEC be served with a fresh hearing notice and all relevant court documents before the next sitting.
