Lawyer Advocates Peaceful Resolution Of Fatima Gold Estate Dispute

An Abuja-based lawyer, Abdul Mahmud, has called for a peaceful resolution of the dispute involving the Residents Association of Fatima Gold Estate, Mararaba, Nasarawa State, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Amabua Muhammed, and other residents over the enforcement of estate rules.

The dispute, which lingered for nearly two years, stemmed from disagreements over the payment of estate dues and the residents’ association’s authority to enforce compliance measures within the estate.

Tensions escalated after some residents, including the senior police officer, were alleged to have defaulted on agreed levies, prompting the association to adopt enforcement measures, including the disconnection of electricity supply to affected properties.

The situation took a dramatic turn on May 27, 2023, when Mahmud was arrested after he reportedly stopped DCP Muhammed from arresting a security officer within the estate without a warrant.

The incident followed the service of a demand notice on the police officer over unpaid dues, a move that reportedly triggered the confrontation.

Mahmud’s arrest drew swift condemnation from members of the legal community and rights advocates, who called it an abuse of power. The then Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, subsequently ordered his release through his Principal Staff Officer, Tunji Bello.

Despite his release, the matter degenerated into what observers described as a personal standoff between the parties.

The dispute later led to the prosecution of Mahmud and the former chairman of the residents’ association, Emmanuel Ejeh, at a Senior Magistrate Court in Mararaba.

It also culminated in Mahmud’s recent detention for several days, further attracting criticism from legal practitioners and civil society groups.

In a statement issued on Monday, Mahmud said efforts were underway to resolve the matter amicably, stressing the need for restraint and constructive engagement by all parties.

“I wish to address the recent developments concerning the Resident Association of Fatima Gold Estate and the disputes that have arisen between the Association, DCP Amabua Muhammed and some other residents over the enforcement of the estate’s rules and regulations, culminating in the prosecution of the former Chairman, Emmanuel Ejeh and me at the Senior Magistrate Court, Mararaba, Nasarawa State.

“The measures taken by the association, including the disconnection of electricity supply to certain properties identified as being in default, were carried out in the belief that they would encourage greater cooperation among residents. The objective was to promote the orderly development of the estate and to safeguard the collective welfare of all who live within it. At no time were these actions intended to cause harm or undue distress to any resident.

“I acknowledge, however, that the process has led to significant inconvenience and discomfort for all parties involved. The concerns and grievances that have emerged, as well as the media reports connected to DCP Amabua Muhammed, are deeply regretted.

“In view of the ongoing efforts by all parties to resolve these issues in a peaceful and amicable manner, it is important to create an atmosphere that supports dialogue, mutual understanding, and reconciliation. Accordingly, all previous publications on this matter are hereby retracted, and I respectfully request the cessation of any further publication or dissemination of related content in your medium.

“It is my sincere hope that, moving forward, all stakeholders will continue to engage constructively in the spirit of good neighbourliness and shared responsibility”, the statement reads.