Coscharis Motors has moved to appeal a judgment that approved the closure of its premises over a dispute involving a Range Rover vehicle. The company filed a notice of appeal at the Court of Appeal, seeking to overturn the ruling of the Federal High Court in Lagos.
Background of the Dispute
The case stems from a disagreement between Coscharis Motors and a customer over a Range Rover Sport. The customer alleged that the vehicle, purchased from Coscharis, developed faults shortly after delivery, and the company failed to rectify the issues. The customer subsequently filed a suit at the Federal High Court, seeking an order to close Coscharis' premises until the matter was resolved.
In July 2026, Justice Chuka Obiozor of the Federal High Court in Lagos granted the order, directing the closure of Coscharis' premises pending the determination of the substantive suit. The judge ruled that the closure was necessary to preserve the subject matter of the dispute and prevent the company from disposing of assets.
Coscharis' Appeal
Coscharis, through its legal team, filed a notice of appeal on July 22, 2026, challenging the judgment on several grounds. The company argues that the lower court erred in law by granting the closure order without considering the merits of the case. According to the appeal, the order was made in violation of the company's right to a fair hearing and was disproportionate to the alleged grievance.
Coscharis also contends that the court failed to evaluate the evidence properly, including the fact that the customer had not made full payment for the vehicle. The company maintains that the dispute is a contractual matter that does not warrant the drastic measure of premises closure.
Impact on Business Operations
The closure order has significantly impacted Coscharis' business operations, preventing the company from carrying out its daily activities at its main showroom and service center in Lagos. The company has stated that the closure has led to financial losses and reputational damage. Industry analysts note that such orders can disrupt the automotive sector, affecting customer confidence and supply chains.
According to a statement from Coscharis, the company is committed to resolving the dispute through legal channels and is confident that the appeal will be successful. The company has urged its customers and stakeholders to remain calm while the legal process unfolds.
Legal Implications
Legal experts say the case raises important questions about the use of court orders to enforce consumer rights in Nigeria. While courts have the power to grant injunctions and closure orders, such remedies must be balanced against the rights of businesses to operate. The Court of Appeal is expected to hear the case in the coming months, and its decision could set a precedent for similar disputes.
In the meantime, the closure order remains in effect, pending the outcome of the appeal. Coscharis has also filed a motion for a stay of execution, asking the court to suspend the order until the appeal is determined.
