RIVERS STATE GOVERNMENT OF NIGERIA THE ATTORNEY-GENERAL OF RIVERS STATE OF NIGERIA V. SPECIALIST KONSULT (SWEDISH GROUP)

OGUNTADE, JCA (Delivering the Lead Judgment): The respondent was the plaintiff in suit No. LD/1664/2000 and the appellant the defendant at the Lagos High Court. The respondent claimed against the appellant thus:- “1. The plaintiff claims against the 1st defendant the sum of USD3,138,122.81 cents (Three million, one hundred and thirty- eight thousand and eighty one cents) being outstanding fees due to plaintiff on work alreadyexecuted on behalf of the Rivers State Government of Nigeria since 27th April, 1995. 2. Interest at the rate of 21% per annum from 27th April, 1995 until the total liquidation of the entire debt under paragraph 1 hereof.” The claim was brought under the undefended list procedure. There was filed in support of the writ an affidavit to which were annexed several documentary exhibits. On 11/10/2000, Hunponu-Wusu J set the matter for hearing on 13/11/2000. On the said 13/11/2000, the trial Judge entered judgment against the appellants. The defendants before the lowe…