Lagos High Court dismisses objection, affirming ANLCA MMAC leadership and confirming Prince Bamgbala Adewusi as legitimate chairman

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

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The ruling was delivered on Monday, upholding the legal authority of Prince Bamgbala Adewusi and his team.

The preliminary objection, filed by Akindele Pius Temitope, Alhaji Taiwo Mustapha, Prince Ozor Chukwurah, Mr Emenike Kingsley Nwokeoji, and Elder Olumide Francis Fakanlu on behalf of the National Executive Committee of ANLCA and its incorporated trustees, challenged the court’s jurisdiction.

They argued that the court could not serve as an appellate body over a prior judgment from the Badagry Division concerning the same subject matter.

Justice Savage, however, ruled that the objection lacked merit, noting that the current suit involved different parties and distinct causes of action.

“A judgment obtained by a party does not necessarily mean they can use it to oust the present executives, especially when the office of the respondent has not ended,” the judge said, awarding N25,000 in costs to the claimants.

Prince Bamgbala Adewusi, the current Chairman of ANLCA MMAC Chapter, expressed gratitude to members of the chapter for their support throughout the leadership dispute.

He emphasised the strategic role of customs agents in national trade and supply chains and urged members to remain focused on the affairs of the command.

Speaking to journalists, Adewusi said both the Lagos High Court ruling and findings from the Nigerian Police affirmed his legitimacy as chairman.

He explained that the court held his tenure remained valid and could not be challenged by his opponents, while the ongoing appeal preserves his legal authority to continue in office.

Adewusi extended appreciation to the National President of ANLCA, Mr Emenike Nwokeoji, for efforts to restore peace across commands.

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He urged colleagues involved in the dispute to prioritise unity and professionalism over politics to stabilise the command in the interest of all members.