Land Dispute: 79-year-old Widow Seeks Court Order Enforcement

A 79-year-old widow, Hajia Colleen Mero Yesufu, has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigeria Police Force to intervene in a land dispute involving properties in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), which she claims were fraudulently taken from her using forged documents.

The properties in question—Plot 4022 in Guzape and Plots 1861, 1862, and 1863 in Katampe—are the subject of an ongoing legal battle. Yesufu, supported by the civil rights group INAHURAT, alleges that the land was unlawfully acquired by a woman known as Rebecca Omokamo Godwin Isaac, who allegedly operates under multiple aliases, including Bilikisu Ishaku Aliyu and Becky.

At a press conference in Abuja, INAHURAT convener Dr. Maxwell Chibuike Opara criticised law enforcement agencies for failing to enforce a Federal High Court interim forfeiture order on the disputed properties.

He expressed concern that despite a court order and the accused’s arraignment in January 2025 under Charge No. CR/007/2025, police officers continue to guard the property in Guzape.

Opara also claimed that EFCC officials were obstructed on March 6, 2025, while trying to execute the court’s ruling.

He called for a full investigation and compliance with judicial directives.

“This case raises serious concerns about the enforcement of court orders in Nigeria,” Opara said. “We urge the EFCC, the Police, and the Presidency to uphold the rule of law.”

He further referenced a 2023 presidential directive banning police escorts for private individuals, arguing that its continued violation undermines public trust.

Also speaking at the event, Prince Wayne Esa, Principal Partner at WCE/Cor Chambers, criticised the allocation of police resources to guard private property despite broader national security challenges.

He questioned the legal basis for the police presence at the contested sites.

INAHURAT revealed that the court had instructed the defendant to produce original land documents, which have not been submitted. Despite this, the group alleges, the accused continues to occupy and sell parts of the land.

“The Police Act obligates officers to serve with integrity,” Opara noted. “All agencies must act fairly and uphold the law.”

He warned that failure to act could erode confidence in the justice system and hinted that public demonstrations could follow if authorities remain inactive.

“We stand firmly with Hajia Yesufu in her pursuit of justice,” Opara said. “This matter must be resolved swiftly and lawfully.”