Lawyer Alleges ‘Persecution’ Of Entrepreneurs In Nigeria

A prominent property developer, Cecil Osakwe, has lamented the growing challenges faced by entrepreneurs in Nigeria.

He said business success in high-value sectors such as real estate often attracts prolonged legal battles, repeated court adjournments and what he described as a hostile environment that punishes rather than protects enterprises.

Osakwe, a lawyer and managing director of Alkire Partners Nig Ltd, who has faced multiple high-profile disputes including an ongoing N300 million alleged illegal eviction and property damage case in the Federal Capital Territory  (FCT) High Court, said the pattern is worrying.

“Land acquisition continues to be one of the most sensitive aspects of property development in Nigeria,” Osakwe stated.

“Developers must navigate complex ownership structures, verify land titles, and comply with regulatory requirements. Failure to conduct proper due diligence often leads to disputes, delays, and financial losses,” he said.

In the case marked FCT/HC/CR/222/2023, Osakwe and co-defendants, including a lawyer, Victor Giwa, face a nine-count charge bordering on criminal intimidation, threat to life, forceful eviction and destruction of property estimated at ₦300 million.

Court proceedings have been repeatedly stalled, with arraignment adjourned multiple times as the director of Public Prosecution reviews the charges. At recent hearings, not all the defendants were present, prompting further delays.

While the merits of individual case rests with the court, Osakwe’s experience mirrors a broader trend affecting entrepreneurs across real estate, manufacturing, fintech and infrastructure.