Community leaders and residents of Warra District in Ngaski Local Government Area, Kebbi State, have lodged a direct criminal complaint against ElTahdam Exploration Limited and its Director of Operations, Abdulhakeem Nuhu. The case, filed before the Chief Magistrate Court I, accuses the defendants of criminal conspiracy, disturbance of public peace, and incitement.
The complaint was instituted under Section 105(3) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law (2021) of Kebbi State and the court’s inherent jurisdiction. It further cites alleged violations of Sections 60(2), 76, and 79(1) of the Kebbi State Penal Code Law, 2021.
According to court filings, the petition was brought forward by 27 complainants, including village heads, religious leaders, and residents of Libata, Kabirba, and Kwanga communities in Warra District.
The complainants claim that in 2024, ElTahdam Exploration Limited, under the leadership of Mr. Nuhu, entered their communities without proper consultation, engagement, or consent. They allege that the company’s presence sparked unrest, heightened tensions, and raised fears of violent clashes, particularly among the youth.
Legal representation for the complainants is being handled by a team comprising Y.B. Aminu Esq., T.I. Mukoshy Esq., and B.A. Idris Esq. The team is seeking a criminal summons against the company and its director.
The complaint further stresses that the defendants’ actions have fueled anxiety and confusion in the communities, warning of possible violent confrontations if urgent intervention is not secured.
In response, the Chief Magistrate Court I had earlier issued an interim injunction restraining Mr. Nuhu and ElTahdam Exploration Limited from entering the affected communities. During the latest court session, the defendants were absent. Counsel for the complainants requested an adjournment in the interest of justice and sought an extension of the restraining order originally issued on August 6, 2025.
The court granted the request and confirmed that the injunction, intended to maintain peace and preserve 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.
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