The Federal High Court sitting in Awka, Anambra State has adjourned a fundamental human rights suit filed by Lake Petroleum Limited against the Anambra State government and the Chairman of Onitsha South Local Government Area, Mr. Emeka Orji.

The case, which has been adjourned to June 26, 2025, concerns allegations of malicious demolition of shops and houses belonging to Lake Petroleum Limited last year.

When the matter came up on Wednesday for ruling on an application for joinder filed by the Ogboo Family of Onitsha, who are also claiming ownership of the disputed land, the presiding judge informed the court that she could not rule on the application as she had been transferred.

"I have been transferred and with immediate effect. I am no longer in this case. I cannot give any ruling for the next judge. I will allow the case to be handled by the next judge to determine the joinder ruling. The case is hereby adjourned to June 26, 2025," the judge stated.

This case has experienced multiple adjournments since it began in March 2024. Justice N. O. Dimgba, who initially presided over the case, was transferred, followed by Justice Yiwa Joseph who briefly heard the matter before also being transferred, leading to the current outgoing judge.

The frequent changes in presiding judges have contributed to delays in resolving the dispute between Lake Petroleum Limited and the Anambra State authorities over the alleged demolition incident.