By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
A Kaduna-based human rights activist and Chief Executive Officer of Eagles Brain Human Rights Organization (EBHRO), Comrade Daniel Ejembi, says three separate court cases have been filed against him following his petition over the alleged illegal relocation, acquisition, and development of Kaduna Polytechnic campus land located along Television Bypass.
Ejembi, who was arraigned on Monday at the Chief Magistrate Court, Daura Road, Kaduna, told journalists that the cases were instituted by officials of the Kaduna State House of Assembly, the Kaduna Geographic Information Service (KADGIS), and a state-owned security agency.
“Three court cases have been instituted against me — one by the Speaker of the State Assembly and others by agency heads. All the cases are before the Ibrahim Taiwo Court in Kaduna,” Ejembi stated, alleging that a bench warrant was issued against him despite not being served with a summons.
According to a petition referenced EBHRO/KDS/2025/004 and dated September 9, 2025, Ejembi had requested a formal inquiry into the alleged involvement of the Kaduna State Development Property Company (KSDPC) Ltd. in the acquisition and development of the polytechnic’s land.
Speaking after the court session, Barrister Enejor Friday, counsel to Ejembi, said they objected to the court’s jurisdiction to hear the case, arguing that the offences outlined in the criminal summons fall outside the court’s authority.
“We objected to the jurisdiction of the court because the offence stated — inciting disturbance and defamation — is beyond its competence. However, the court overruled us and insisted that the plea must be taken before any preliminary objection,” he explained.
Barr. Friday added that Ejembi pleaded not guilty to the charges and was granted bail in the sum of N1 million, with two sureties in like sum who must present evidence of a legitimate source of livelihood.
The court adjourned the case to October 20, 2025, for hearing.
Ejembi’s counsel further disclosed plans to file a written preliminary objection before the next sitting, maintaining that the charges are based on offences under the Criminal Code Law of Kaduna State (2017).
“The offences of inciting public disturbance and defamation are both criminal under the Kaduna State laws. However, we will continue to challenge the jurisdiction of the court to hear them,” he added.
Meanwhile, site visits by our correspondent to the disputed Kaduna Polytechnic land revealed ongoing construction and development activities allegedly linked to the controversy.
