S. A. AKINTAN, J.S.C (Delivering the Leading Judgment): The present respondent, as plaintiff, instituted this action at Lagos High Court as suit No. LD/2342/2000 against the present appellant as the defendant. The plaintiff's claim is as follows:
"(1) The sum of US $2,755,618.85 being the sum due and payable to the plaintiff on a building contract between the parties.
(2) Interest on the said sum of US $2,755,618.85 at the rate of 12% per annum from the 22nd June, 2000 until judgment and thereafter at the same rate until total liquidation.
(3) The cost of this action." The writ of summons was filed along with the statement of claim. When the appellant was served, it entered appearance under protest and then filed a notice of preliminary objection in which it claimed that the trial High Court lacked jurisdiction to entertain the claim. The reason for the objection is given as follows:
"(1) The appellant by virtue of the Diplomatic Immunities and Privileges (African Reinsurance Corpor…