Abuja High Court Dismisses $19.6 Million Claim Against NNPCL
The Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja has dismissed a $19.6 million suit filed by Alternate Dimensions Ventures Ltd against the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).
The plaintiff had asked the court to compel NNPCL to pay $19,600,000 as professional fees, claiming that the scope of its Direct Sale, Direct Purchase contract with NNPCL had been orally expanded and that it was entitled to payment for services allegedly rendered under the revised terms.
Represented by Patrick Peter, the firm argued that the agreement had been changed through oral understanding.
NNPCL, represented by Ituah Imhanze of KENNA LP, opposed the claim, insisting that parties are bound by the clear terms of their written agreement and that no written amendment expanding the scope existed.
Delivering judgment, Justice Mu’azu agreed with NNPCL’s position, holding that the contract was clear and unambiguous.
The judge found that Alternate Dimensions failed to produce evidence showing that the contract scope was validly expanded.
The court also determined that NNPCL complied with the terms of the agreement and did not breach the contract.
Justice Mu’azu dismissed the suit for lacking merit and reiterated that any amendment to a written contract must be express, clear and properly documented.
The ruling relieves NNPCL of the $19.6 million claim and any related liabilities.
About the Author
