Havells India Limited, a renowned electrical and electronics manufacturer recently got a landmark judgment at the Federal High Court, Lagos, on trademark infringement.
Justice A. L. Allagoa of the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos, in his verdict affirmed the status of Havells’ trademarks and declared the use of the name “MDC Havels Products Limited” as an infringement on the HAVELLS trade mark, violating the provisions of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 2020. Specifically, sections 30(4) and 852.
The matter was in suit number FHC/L/CS/1295/2023: Havells India Ltd. v. CAC (Corporate Affairs Commission) and MDC Havels Products Limited.
The court, while giving judgment mandated the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) to expunge and strike off the company name, MDC Havels Products Ltd, the extent it uses the word “Havels” from the Register of Companies, showcasing a commitment to upholding the sanctity of intellectual property rights in Nigeria.
“The use of the name “MDC Havels Products Limited” is an infringement on the HAVELLS trade mark, thereby violating the provisions of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 2020, specifically sections 30(4) and 852,” Justice Allagoa held.
The legal battle it would be recalled centered on the unauthorised use of Havells’ well-known trademark by the Nigerian entity, MDC Havels Products Limited in its company name in Nigeria.
The judgment which came after thorough consideration of the evidence presented by Havells dwelled comprehensively on blend of misuse of the brand “Havells” not only as a trademark but also as a part of the corporate name of the offending defendant company.
Havells India Limited was represented by the Stren & Blan Partners team led by Amala Umeike, and Chibudike Anene.
