The Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment has officially acknowledged receiving a formal appeal directed to the Minister, Jumoke Oduwo. This appeal centers on serious allegations concerning alterations to corporate documents and administrative decisions linked to two companies: JonahCapital Nigeria Limited and Houses for Africa Nigeria Limited.
Ministry's Official Statement on the Appeal
In a press release dated December 23, 2025, and signed by the head of press and public relations, Obilor-Duru Augustina, the Ministry broke its silence on the matter. The statement was distributed to journalists across the country. It confirmed that the issues raised in the appeal are not new to the legal system.
The Ministry pointed out that these matters are already being heard by courts of competent jurisdiction. Specifically, cases are pending before the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory and the Federal High Court in Abuja. The Ministry's statement also recognized that there are existing interlocutory orders from these courts. These orders mandate all involved parties to maintain the status quo until the main cases are fully resolved.
Commitment to Constitutionalism and Sub Judice
The Ministry used strong language to express its unwavering respect for Nigeria's judiciary. It stated a firm commitment to constitutionalism and the rule of law. A key principle highlighted was the doctrine of sub judice, which restricts public comment on ongoing judicial proceedings to avoid influencing the outcome.
The Ministry made a crucial clarification regarding its acknowledgment of the appeal. It emphasized that receiving and reviewing the document does not constitute an attempt to interfere with, pre-empt, or undermine the authority of the courts or the ongoing cases. The review is being conducted strictly within the Ministry's administrative oversight mandate.
Review Process and Assurance to Stakeholders
While showing respect for the judicial process, the Ministry confirmed it has taken the appeal under advisement. It assured all stakeholders that this internal review is being carried out without prejudice to the pending court matters. The Ministry pledged to act in full compliance with all existing court orders.
The statement further promised that the Ministry would conduct itself with restraint, fairness, and institutional propriety. It vowed that no action would be taken that could potentially compromise the integrity of the judicial proceedings. The Ministry also issued a call to all relevant agencies and parties involved to continue respecting the subsisting court orders and to allow due process to run its proper course.
In concluding, the Ministry reaffirmed its broader mission to promote investor confidence in Nigeria. It stressed its role in upholding due process and ensuring the nation's regulatory and institutional frameworks operate with transparency and in strict accordance with the law.
