OMOKRI, J.C.A: (Delivering the Leading Judgment): This is an appeal against the decision of Justice Odu of the High Court of Cross River State, Calabar in suit No. C/14/82 delivered on 29/8/2000.
The plaintiffs/respondents, (hereinafter called respondents) Registered Trustees of the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, claimed that they are owners of a piece and parcel of land situate at Otu Street, I Edem Ishie Street, Ishie Town, Calabar. Having acquired the land as aforesaid, they proceeded to erect a church manse to accommodate their Ministers and or Pastors. When the building was at wall plate level they alleged that the Central Bank of Nigeria instructed the Police to demolish the building which they did. The respondents then instituted proceedings against the Central Bank of Nigeria and the police, herein described as defendants/respondents, claiming as follows:
"(a) A (declaration that the plaintiffs are the rightful owner of a piece and parcel of land situate at Otu Street/Edem Ef…