The High Court of Justice, Agenebode Judicial Division in Edo State, has resumed hearing in a landmark case instituted by the Imiefo Kindred of Ukhomunyio Community, Okpella, against BUA Cement PLC and the Okuokpellagbe of Okpella, HRH Michael E.O. Sado, over alleged encroachment and interference in mining activities on their ancestral land.
Abdul Samad, founder and chairman of BUA Group
The Okuokpellagbe of Okpella, HRH Michael E.O. Sado
The suit, marked No: HAG/16/2025, challenges the legality of a Community Development Agreement (CDA) reportedly being pursued without the consent and proper representation of the Imiefo Kindred.
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At the most recent court sitting, Barrister P.T. Brahma, counsel to HRH Sado, was absent, while Barrister Mokidi represented BUA Cement PLC. Presiding over the matter, the judge reiterated that the case remains active and barred all parties from signing the disputed CDA pending the determination of the suit. The next hearing has been scheduled for November 17, 2025.
The claimants — Chief Attah E.E. Anekhogie, Obaze Pius Dariji, and Victor Ebunu — are seeking the court’s intervention to restrain the defendants from engaging in any mining or agreement activities that disregard the rights and consultation of the Imiefo Kindred.
In their submission, solicitors from A.O.O. Ekpu & Co. underscored the need for justice and transparency, urging HRH Sado to cease interference (“pork-noising”) in the Imiefo community’s affairs and allow the court to determine the rightful ownership and authority over the mining land.
Community representatives say the case goes beyond a dispute over land; it is about defending indigenous rights, ensuring fair benefit-sharing, and holding powerful entities accountable.
As the legal battle intensifies, all eyes remain on the Edo High Court to deliver a judgment that could reshape how host communities engage with corporate entities in Nigeria’s extractive sector.
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