Bob Geldof awaits ruling on court fight involving African investment firm

Musician and campaigner Bob Geldof is waiting to hear the result of the latest stage of a legal fight related to a firm he chairs.

A judge has been asked to decide whether the dispute – centred on the 8 Miles private equity firm, which invests in African businesses – should proceed to a trial.

Mr Justice Nugee has analysed evidence at a High Court hearing in London over the past two days.

He is expected to publish a ruling in the near future.

Geldof, the driving force behind the 1980s Band Aid and Live Aid projects, was not at the hearing.

Businessman Miten Dutia claims that he was a member of a partnership – along with Geldof and three other businessmen – behind the creation of 8 Miles.

Mr Dutia says his claim should be analysed at trial.

Geldof and the other businessmen say Mr Dutia’s ”partnership claim” is ”without merit”.

They say there is ”no good reason” for a trial to take place.

A less senior judge has already ruled against Mr Dutia.

Chief Master Matthew Marsh granted ”summary judgment” in favour of Bob Geldof and the three other businessmen.

He said Mr Dutia’s prospects of success at a trial were ”fanciful”.

Mr Dutia wants Mr Justice Nugee to overturn that ruling.