Former Seplat Energy CEO, Austin Avuru calls off retirement dinner

Austin Avuru, founding chief executive officer of Seplat Energy, has called off the planned retirement dinner which was to feature the unveiling of his books.

The decision was said to have followed an injunction by an Abuja High Court.

An e-message signed by the respected oil and gas expert informed invited guests that “this event has been suspended by an Abuja High Court Injunction.

The presiding judge, Justice S.B Belgore gave the restraining order on Tuesday stopping Mr Avuru, his publishers, Radi8 Limited and their agents and privies from presenting the book pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice.

“Our lawyers are at work and, when we are permitted, we shall re-assemble at a later date.

The message concluded with “sincere apologies to our invited guests and dignitaries for untold inconveniences and arrested expectations. Very warm regards.”

The Abuja court issued the injunction following a motion ex-parte filed by Tochukwu Peter Tochukwu.

The motion sought a number of relief(s) which included: “An order of interim injunction restraining the defendants, their privies, assigns, agents and howsoever described from proceeding to temper with the res – by taking any step geared at releasing or public presentation of the book titled – My Entrepreneurship Journey, A Safe Part of Hands and Politics, Economics and the Nigerian Petroleum Industry, all by Austin Avuru – Founding CEO, Seplat Energy or any other book(s) on the 4th of August, 2022 or at any other date in Eko Hotels and Suites Victoria Island or any other venue pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice.

“An Order directing the Inspector General of Police either by himself or any officer under his control or command to ensure strict compliance with the foregoing Orders.”

According to the plaintiff, the content of the books is offensive to their interest as shareholders of Seplat Energy Plc.