Land Dispute: CSO Seeks Justice For 79–year–old Widow

A non-governmental organisation, the Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED), has expressed concern about the obstruction of justice in an ongoing land fraud case involving a 79-year-old widow, Collen Mero Yesufu.

In a statement signed by its executive director, Dr Ibrahim Zikirullahi, the organisation criticised law enforcement’s apparent failure to uphold justice and ensure accountability in the case.

CHRICED highlighted that despite court orders for the forfeiture of Plot 4022 in the Guzape district of Abuja, the suspect at the centre of the dispute reportedly continues to occupy the property under the protection of police officers. The case involves serious allegations, including forgery, criminal trespass, fraud, and obtaining property by false pretence.

“The reported police protection extended to a suspect in defiance of court orders raises serious legal and ethical concerns, particularly regarding Section 126 of the Nigerian Criminal Code, which prohibits the obstruction of lawful processes,” the statement read.

The organisation drew parallels to past instances where law enforcement agencies were accused of shielding suspects, emphasising that such actions undermine public confidence in the justice system.

“Justice must be served impartially and without delay,” CHRICED declared, while demanding the immediate withdrawal of any police personnel allegedly providing protection to the suspect.

CHRICED further warned that if these developments persist, it would consider initiating legal proceedings, including public interest litigation and other forms of civic action, to compel accountability.

The organisation called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to carry out its duties without interference. It urged oversight bodies – including the National Assembly, the Police Service Commission (PSC), and the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) – to launch investigations into the alleged complicity of law enforcement officers.

CHRICED also appealed directly to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging his administration to take swift and decisive action to restore public trust in Nigeria’s justice system.