By Umar Faruk Birnin Kebbi
A contractual dispute involving a N37 million business agreement took a new turn on Monday as Kebbi High Court 2, before her Lordship Hon justice Nusirat Ibrahim, resumed hearing in the case filed by businessman Bashar Ibrahim and four others against CSP Abdullahi Bala Rano, Officer in Charge of Medical at the Kebbi State Police Command Headquarters.
The plaintiffs allege a breach of contract by CSP Rano in a palm oil business agreement. During the hearing, counsel to the plaintiffs, Hussaini Zakariya SAN, cross-examined CSP Rano, who had presented his defense evidence the previous Thursday. However, the defendant introduced a new document, prompting the adjournment to Monday, November 11, 2024, to allow the plaintiff's counsel to study the document.
The cross-examination revealed key details. When asked if he received N250 million from MUHSAN Company, CSP Rano replied, "Yes, if the record of exhibits B speak so." He admitted reporting MUHSAN Company to the IGP and EFCC due to involvement in criminal business, stating it was due to their actions. CSP Rano also confirmed being an agent and investor of MUHSAN Company and disclosed the company's office address in Kano and field operations in Akwa-Ibom.
Defendant CSP Abdullahi Bala Rano, during the cross-examination session, agreed that Muhsan Company is a criminal syndicate due to their activities, which led him to report to the inspector General of police and EFCC. He also admitted that all the claimants in this matter paid money to his personal account and that there is no agreement between the claimant and Muhsan Company, and that he received all the money the claimant claimed in his Jaiz bank account.
The case highlights the complexities of business agreements and the importance of thorough documentation, similar to the dispute resolution mechanisms. As the hearing continues, the court will scrutinize the evidence presented to determine liability and potential damages.
While the matter was adjourned to December 9th, 2024, for the adoption of final written addresses of both parties, it remains to be seen how the Kebbi State High Court will rule on this N37 million breach of contract case involving CSP Abdullahi Bala Rano.
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Judiciary