Lawyer Threatens Contempt Proceedings Against New Rector of Federal Polytechnic Nekede

Kingdom Okere, a lawyer and Executive Director of the Kingdom Human Rights Foundation International, has announced plans to file contempt proceedings against Mrs. Basillia Igbokwe if she assumes the role of Rector at the Federal Polytechnic Nekede in Imo State. Okere made this statement during a press briefing in Abuja.

The legal action is being pursued in response to an ongoing case before the National Industrial Court in Abuja, identified as suit number NICN/ABJ/232/2024. This case challenges the processes involved in Igbokwe’s selection and appointment as Rector.

Okere also indicated that he plans to include Mrs. E.C. Anuna, the institution’s Registrar, in the contempt proceedings for allegedly disobeying a court order. Additionally, he intends to pursue similar actions against the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Education for issuing the appointment letter to Igbokwe despite the pending legal challenge.

Kingdom Okere

The dispute revolves around a memo issued by the registrar to the polytechnic community, dated September 12, 2024, regarding the inauguration of Igbokwe as the new Rector. Okere highlighted that an ex-parte court order had been obtained, prohibiting Igbokwe from assuming office until the court reviews the motion on notice or renders a final judgment on the substantive case.

The Kingdom Human Rights Foundation International asserts that all defendants have been notified of the court order and that any attempt to proceed with Igbokwe’s appointment would be met with legal resistance and potential criminal sanctions. Okere has also called for an investigation by President Bola Tinubu into the issuance of the appointment letter to Igbokwe.

The situation remains under legal scrutiny as the court prepares to address the issues raised.