The Enugu State High Court, under the stewardship of Justice A.O Onovo, has dismissed, for lack of merit, a lawsuit initiated by the late Chief (Dr) Debe Odumegwu Ojukwu. He claimed to be the first son of the late Ikemba Nnewi, Dim Chukwemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, against Ikemba’s widow, Mrs. Bianca Ojukwu.
Debe had filed the suit contesting the authenticity of Ikemba’s will, arguing that as the first son, his name should have been included, which it wasn’t.
He alleged tampering with the will and sought to restrain Mrs. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu from involvement in the estate’s administration, also claiming that Ojukwu died intestate and asserting entitlement to administer the estate.
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The late Biafra leader, Ojukwu, passed away on November 26, 2011. His widow, Bianca, and Mr. James Ezike were named as trustees and executors in his will.
Debe brought the matter to court in 2013, asserting his status as the deceased’s first son. The court addressed whether sufficient evidence was presented to establish his status and the validity of the will.
The court deliberated for over two hours before Justice Onovo delivered the verdict. He ruled that Debe failed to prove acknowledgment by Ojukwu as his biological son during his lifetime. While Debe claimed recognition by various groups, the court stressed that public opinion alone couldn’t determine paternity.
Regarding the will’s validity, Debe cited typographical errors and signatories’ issues. However, the court found the will and codicil properly executed and valid.
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Furthermore, the court addressed the right of Debe’s children to challenge Ojukwu’s will, emphasizing the need to prove their relationship to Ojukwu. Since Debe couldn’t establish his filial connection, his children lacked standing to challenge the will.
In summary, the court dismissed the case, declaring it without merit. Stay informed with Ejes Gist News – Your Source for Credible News in Nigeria Now.
