In a major legal twist, the Federal High Court in Abuja has barred the Federal Government from taking further steps on a disputed contract involving Nigeria’s critical citizenship and marriage registration systems.
Justice Emeka Nwite ordered all parties on Monday to maintain the status quo, warning that no action must be taken to tamper with the e-Citibiz platform pending the full hearing of the case.
The ruling came after Anchor Dataware Solutions Limited dragged the Federal Ministry of Interior, the Attorney-General of the Federation, and the Federal Republic of Nigeria to court over alleged wrongful termination of its Public-Private Partnership (PPP) contract.
Anchor Dataware, which automates expatriate quotas, business permits, citizenship processes, and marriage registrations for Nigeria, claims its contract was illegally revoked through a letter dated April 15, 2025 — a move it says breached contractual terms.
In suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/770/2025, the firm is seeking declarations affirming that its PPP agreement remains valid and binding, an injunction stopping the Ministry from hiring any replacement without giving the required three months’ notice, and ₦20 million in damages for unlawful disengagement.
At Monday’s hearing, lawyers for both sides — A.O. Amagwula for the plaintiff and Abiola Olawola for the defendants — appeared in court.
While the defense asked for more time to respond to filings, Anchor Dataware’s counsel pushed for a formal freeze on any changes affecting the subject of litigation.
Justice Nwite agreed, stressing that “justice demands” all parties “stay action” once a matter is properly before the court.
The defense pledged to respect the court process.
The case was adjourned to June 3, 2025, for hearing.