The Oyo State High Court in Ibadan has adjourned the case filed by Gani Adams, the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, against Yoruba Nation activist Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, until January 14, 2025.
Gani Adams brought the lawsuit, alleging that Igboho infringed on his privacy and caused harm to his reputation in his esteemed position. In the case, registered as Suit No. M/1006/2024, Adams seeks damages of N5 billion for what he describes as an invasion of privacy related to certain public statements made by Igboho.
During the court session on Monday, the defense, represented by attorney Junaid Sanusi alongside Olalekan Banjo, stated they had not received any official notice about the lawsuit. According to Sanusi, the defense only became aware of the allegations through media reports. Sanusi expressed readiness to accept the necessary legal documents on behalf of Igboho.
In response, the claimant’s legal representative, R.O. Solahudeen, who appeared on behalf of Kehinde Adegbite, assured the court that all required documents would be delivered to the defense through the court bailiff.
Justice A.O. Lajide, overseeing the case, instructed the claimant’s counsel to ensure all paperwork reaches the respondent’s side before the next hearing. The judge emphasized that all pleadings should be properly filed and shared with involved parties ahead of the January 2025 session.
Sanusi, speaking after the proceedings, confirmed that the court adjourned the case to allow all documents to be served and organized. He added that the application is based on affidavits and will not require personal appearances from either Adams or Igboho. Only the lawyers are expected to attend and present arguments when the court resumes.
“What happened in court was that we informed the court that we only got the information from the news media. We also informed the court that we are ready to receive the service of the documents on behalf of the respondent, as instructed by him.
“The court adjourned the matter to January 14, 2025, by which time all papers must have been served. The case was adjourned for hearing because by then, all the papers would have been filed.
“It’s an affidavit-based application, so it is not a matter requiring oral testimony. Both parties do not have to be present in court; only the lawyers will attend to argue the application.”