Federal Court Dismisses All Claims in Dispute Involving Major Real Estate Development Near the United Nations
(New York, NY, September 23, 2026) Carter Ledyard & Milburn LLP secured a complete victory for its client, the world-renowned Senegalese architect Pierre Goudiaby Atepa, in a years-long federal litigation in the Southern District of New York. Following a bench trial, the Court dismissed every claim brought against Mr. Goudiaby and the Republic of Senegal, entering judgment with prejudice in Diedhiou v. The Republic of Senegal et al., No. 20 Civ. 5685 (S.D.N.Y.).
Known as the “Architect of West Africa,” Mr. Goudiaby is one of the most influential figures shaping Africa’s modern architectural landscape. The dispute arose from his involvement in a substantial real estate development project near the United Nations in midtown Manhattan — a project he originally conceived while serving as special advisor to Senegal’s former president. When the project changed direction after a change in Senegal’s leadership, the plaintiff, Pape M. Diedhiou, brought claims seeking over $2.4 million against both Mr. Goudiaby and the Republic of Senegal.
Partners Alex Malyshev and Madelyn White led the defense, assisted by paralegal Mara Leff.
After a three-day trial, the Court rejected every theory the plaintiff advanced — including breach of contract, unjust enrichment, and promissory estoppel — finding that the claims failed on multiple independent grounds. The Court concluded that the plaintiff could not establish standing to bring the claims, that the claims were time-barred, and that the plaintiff had failed to present credible evidence of any agreement or promise to pay. Judgment was entered for both Mr. Goudiaby and the Republic of Senegal, and the case was dismissed with prejudice.
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