₦27 Million for Justice? Fruitful Mekwunye’s Bombshell Allegation Rocks PMAN Case as Judge Esowe Nears Verdict

 

28th May, 2025

By Eberechukwu Olisaemeka Opara

The National Industrial Court of Nigeria finds itself at the center of a storm as Hon. Justice M. N. Esowe prepares to rule in Suit No.: NICN/LA/48/2025 – Performing Musicians Employers’ Association of Nigeria (PMAN) v. Engr. George Dureke & 13 Ors.

At the heart of the controversy are explosive allegations from Fruitful Mekwunye and Raymond Lasisi, two central figures in a disputed consent judgment. Both men have allegedly been overheard boasting that “the hands of Hon. Justice M. N. Esowe are tied,” claiming that a ₦27 million payment secured them a favorable judgment that now cannot be undone.

The suit was filed by Pretty Okafor, the embattled PMAN President, whose tenure is under threat following a consent judgment in Suit No.: NICN/LA/360/2024, which recognizes a rival faction led by Lasisi, Mekwunye, and George Dureke. Okafor is contesting the legitimacy of that judgment through Suit No.: NICN/LA/48/2025, alleging that it was fraudulently obtained.

According to documents before the court, the opposing group initiated legal proceedings, served themselves at Lobby D, National Arts Theatre—an address completely unrelated to PMAN's official headquarters at 4B Hammed Kasumu Street, Chevy View Estate, Lekki, Lagos—and obtained a consent judgment without the knowledge or participation of the legitimate PMAN leadership.

The implications are serious. For any party to openly brag about buying justice—especially with a named sum and a sitting judge—is not only a smear on Nigeria’s legal system but a potential tipping point for judicial credibility. The National Industrial Court, revered as a bastion of constitutional labor rights, must now confront a moment that could define its public trust.

As Justice Esowe’s ruling approaches, the nation watches closely. Will justice prevail—or has it truly been priced?

All eyes on the National Industrial Court.