A coalition of community leaders and residents from the Warra District in Ngaski Local Government Area of Kebbi State has lodged a direct criminal complaint against ElTahdam Exploration Limited and its Director of Operations, Abdulhakeem Nuhu. The complaint accuses the company and its official of criminal conspiracy, disturbance of public peace, and incitement.
The case, instituted under Section 105(3) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law (2021) of Kebbi State and the court’s inherent jurisdiction, cites alleged violations of Sections 60(2), 76, and 79(1) of the Kebbi State Penal Code Law, 2021.
According to court filings, the complaint was signed by 27 individuals, including village heads, religious leaders, and concerned residents from the Libata, Kabirba, and Kwanga communities within the Warra District.
The complainants allege that in 2024, ElTahdam Exploration Limited, led by Mr. Nuhu, entered their communities without due consultation, engagement, or consent. They claim that the company’s presence and activities triggered unrest, heightening tension among residents.
Represented by a legal team comprising Y.B. Aminu Esq., T.I. Mukoshy Esq., and B.A. Idris Esq., the communities are seeking a criminal summons against the defendants. The filing further warns that the company’s actions have created confusion and anxiety, particularly among young people, raising the risk of violent clashes.
“The disciplined members of the communities have now started responding, and the chances of physical combat between uninformed children of the landowners and the general public are increasing,” the complaint stated, stressing the need for urgent judicial intervention.
In response, the Chief Magistrate Court I has extended an interim injunction restraining Abdulhakeem Nuhu and ElTahdam Exploration Limited from entering the disputed Warra District communities.
During the most recent hearing, the defendants were absent. Counsel for the complainants requested an adjournment in the interest of justice and also applied for an extension of the restraining order originally granted on August 6, 2025.
The court upheld the application, confirming that the interim injunction—aimed at preserving peace and maintaining the status quo—will remain in effect until September 16, 2025.
The matter has been adjourned to September 15, 2025, for the arraignment of the defendants.
