The Federal High Court in Lagos has restrained the Nigerian Navy and other security agencies from arresting retired Vice Admiral Dada Olaniyi Labinjo, following a “deserter signal” issued against him by the Navy.
Justice Ambrose Lewis-Allagoa granted the interim order while ruling on an ex parte motion filed by Labinjo’s counsel, Andrew Igboekwe (SAN).
In his ruling, Justice Lewis-Allagoa directed that the signal, numbered 643NG and dated September 3, 2025, which ordered Labinjo’s arrest or apprehension, “shall remain unexecuted” until the substantive suit is heard and determined.
The respondents in the suit include the Nigerian Navy, the Chief of Naval Staff, the Navy Board, and the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF).
The court also issued an interim injunction restraining the respondents and any other law enforcement agencies from arresting or detaining Labinjo on the basis of the signal or for any other reason, except pursuant to a valid order of a competent court.
Justice Lewis-Allagoa ordered that the contested signal remain suspended pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice for the enforcement of the applicant’s fundamental rights.
The matter was adjourned to October 20 for further hearing.
