By Hungah Peter (SIWES student, Federal Polytechnic Ilaro)
Soljas Limited, an indigenous company, has taken legal action against the Ministry of Defence at the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt, alleging the destruction of its vessel, MV Cecelia, in connection with crude oil theft.
The lawsuit (FHC/PH/CS/157/2023) seeks $4 million for the vessel’s value and N10 billion in damages. Defendants include the Chief of Naval Staff, Chief of Defence Staff, Ministry of Defence, and the Attorney General of the Federation, along with specific naval officers.
The company claims unlawful seizure and destruction without proper legal procedures.
The court, presided by Justice Sada’atu Mark, scheduled the next hearing for November 29th.
