By Milcah Tanimu

The Enugu State High Court, under the jurisdiction of Justice A.O Onovo, has dismissed a lawsuit filed by the late Chief (Dr) Debe Odumegwu Ojukwu against Mrs. Bianca Ojukwu, the widow of the late Ikemba Nnewi, Dim Chukwemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu.

Dabe, who claimed to be the first son of Dim Chukwemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, contested the authenticity of Ojukwu’s will, arguing that his name, as the first son, should have been included but was omitted. He alleged tampering with the will and sought an order to restrain Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu from interfering with the estate’s administration, along with a declaration of Ojukwu dying intestate.

The court, after evaluating the evidence, concluded that Dabe failed to prove acknowledgment as Ojukwu’s biological son during his lifetime. Justice Onovo highlighted the prerogative of a father to recognize a child born out of wedlock, which was not evident in this case.

Additionally, the court addressed the challenge to Ojukwu’s will, deeming it properly and validly executed. It ruled that Dabe’s children lacked the locus standi to contest the will, as their father failed to establish his paternity.

In summary, the court ruled against Dabe’s claims, affirming the validity of Ojukwu’s will and dismissing the lawsuit.