CAC Closes Defence in Chappal Energies Name Dispute
The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) on Monday formally closed its defence in the suit filed by Chappal Energies Nigeria Limited, which challenges the Commission’s directive ordering the company to change its registered business name.
The matter came up before Justice Mohammed Umar of the Federal High Court, Abuja. Although the CAC had earlier sought leave to call an additional witness, its counsel informed the court that the Commission had resolved to rest its case.
The dispute stems from CAC’s directive that Chappal Energies alter its name on the grounds that it could mislead the public. The company, however, contends that the directive violates its right to fair hearing and undermines its operations, insisting that the name was duly approved under the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) after a public search confirmed no conflict.
At the resumed hearing, Senior Advocate of Nigeria Oluseun Awonuga appeared for Chappal Energies, while N. Ibrahim represented CAC. Ibrahim told the court: “My Lord, the matter is slated today for continuation of defence. However, the substantive counsel, having conferred with his client, has decided to close his case.” He thereafter applied for a date for adoption of final written addresses.
Awonuga raised no objection, and Justice Umar adjourned the matter to May 6 for adoption of final addresses—the last stage before judgment is delivered.
In its filings, Chappal Energies argued that it commenced operations in the oil and gas sector with the incorporated name approved by CAC, only to later face a petition from Chappal Petroleum Development Company Limited (CPDC) alleging similarity. CAC, after investigation, directed a name change, citing potential deception.
While Chappal Energies maintains that the directive would negatively affect its business, the Commission insists it acted within its statutory powers under CAMA.
