The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has filed a lawsuit against the acting Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, Jarret Tenebe, over what it describes as a forceful and unlawful takeover of its secretariat on Airport Road in Benin City.
In the suit lodged at the Edo State High Court, the PDP is requesting a perpetual injunction to bar Tenebe and his associates from entering or conducting any activities at the property located at No. 49 Airport Road.
The writ of summons, dated February 14, 2025, and made public on Wednesday, also includes a demand for over N900 million in damages.
The party is claiming more than N300 million in special damages for office equipment allegedly destroyed or stolen during the January 16 incident. Items listed include computers, generators, and laptops.
The PDP is asking the court to affirm it as the legal occupant of the property, based on a lease agreement with the landlord, Mr. Ena Agbontan, which it says is still in force.
It further argues that the eviction of its officials and staff was an act of trespass and a violation of its right to peacefully occupy the premises.
The party is seeking N500 million in general damages for the alleged disruption of its lawful use of the office.
It also wants compensation of N322,765,500 for the lost and damaged equipment, and N90 million to cover the cost of securing temporary office space at Etano Hotel, G.R.A., Benin City—at a daily rate of N3 million from January 16 to February 13, 2025.
In addition, the PDP is requesting a daily charge of N5 million from February 13, 2025, until the court delivers judgment.
The party is also asking the court to restore its possession of the disputed premises and to issue a permanent order restraining Tenebe, his agents, or anyone acting on his behalf from further interference.
This legal move comes amid public backlash over the January 16 incident, which the PDP condemned as an attack on democracy and the rule of law.