Hopeful Dispute Resolution In Lagos Country Club As Court Adjourns Settlement Report To June 25

Expectations are high for a return of peace to the beleaguered Lagos Country Club as the Federal High Court in Lagos set June 25 as the date for the report of settlement in the case involving the club’s Registered Trustees and some members of the Management Council led by the President Mr. Seyi Adewunmi.

During the hearing of the suit No FHC/L/CS/321/24, presided over by Justice Ambrose Lewis Allagoa, appearances were noted as follows: Dr. Kemi Pinheiro (SAN) led the legal team for the plaintiffs, while Mr. Dele Adesina (SAN) represented the defendants, with the exception of the 3rd and 15th defendants. Representation for the 3rd defendant was provided by Mr. G.K. Adelusi, and the 15th defendant, Babatunde Fasanu (SAN), represented himself.

In his address to the court, Adesina highlighted that after reviewing the case documents, he believed the dispute could be resolved amicably. He said he has filed a Notice of Change of Counsel for the defendants, and emphasized that the parties involved are members of the same community, akin to “mouth and tongue,” which occasionally quarrel but ultimately must coexist peacefully. He stressed the club’s 75-year legacy and the importance of resolving internal disputes without prolonged litigation.

“In the circumstance, I seek your lordship indulgence to give us a date for the parties and counsels to meet and explore amicable settlement,” he said.
Adesina’s counterpart, Dr. Pinheiro, expressed agreement, reinforcing the view that the matter is a family dispute that should be resolved internally. The other legal representatives also concurred, showing a collective preference for an out-of-court settlement.
Justice Allagoa, acknowledging the consensus among the senior advocates, granted the application for adjournment. He expressed optimism that the three eminent Silks involved would facilitate a resolution.

The judge emphasized the importance of maintaining the status quo during the settlement process, instructing that the club’s funds remain untouched until a resolution is achieved.
“I will grant the application for adjournment for Report of Settlement,” he said, adding that with the settlement process, all the sister cases would also be adjourned.