NWALI SYLVESTER NGWUTA, J.C.A. (Delivering the Leading Judgment): This is an appeal against the judgment of Edem, J. of the High Court of Justice, Cross River State, Ikom Judicial Division in suit No. HM/10/2/97. The judgment was delivered on 18/11/98. There is an earlier ruling of the trial court delivered in 20/4/98. The original parties before the lower court are set out below:
Chief Felix Njang Assam - Plaintiff
And
1. The Government of Cross River State of Nigeria
2. Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Cross River State
3. E. O. Erim - Defendants
4. His Royal Highness, Minen O. Ndoma-Egba
In a motion headed "motion ex parte" dated 18/9/2002 and filed in the lower court on 18/9/2002 there was an alteration in the number of parties on each side.
The parties appeared as follows:
1. The Govt. of Cross River State
2. Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Cross River State
3. Mr. E. O. Erim - Appellants/Applicants
4. His Royal Highness, Minen Ndoma-Egba
5. Chief Og…