₦airaland Forum

I Paid Property Developer, Oak Homes, Olukayode Olusanya N152m With Life Savings But Deny Transaction Records - Nigerian-American Engineer Tells Court



Nigerian-American engineer, Mr. Anthony Ugbebor, has told a Lagos State High Court sitting in Tafawa Balewa Square, that he paid N152m for two luxury flats with his “life savings” adding that the developer to later deny having records of the transaction.

Ugbebor, who opened his defence in a protracted N152 million property dispute before the court narrated how the payments were made.

The lawsuit, filed by property developer Mr. Olukayode Olusanya and his company, Oak Homes Limited (Suit No. LD/4471LM/2023), seeks a declaration of trespass and other reliefs against Ugbebor over two second-floor apartments at No. 14A Musa Yar’Adua Street, Victoria Island, Lagos.

During the hearing of the case, Ugbebor, through his counsel, Mr. Nasiru Salau, adopted his witness statement on oath, leading to the admission of several documents as Exhibits DW1 A–J.

The presiding judge, Justice Akingbola George, allowed Ugbebor to introduce evidence in support of his amended counterclaim, urging the court to dismiss the claimant’s suit for lacking merit and to order the immediate handover of the two flats, which he said he had substantially paid for since 2020.

The engineer testified that he paid N152 million (equivalent to $400,000) out of a total purchase price of N190 million (80% paid) using his “life savings.”

He stated that on October 11, 2022, he sent a representative to inspect the flats, only for Oak Homes Limited to allegedly claim there was “no record” of his transaction despite the payments made.

He denied sending correspondence to the Ghana chapter of Transparency International labeling Olusanya a murderer or thief, stating he only expressed concern over Olusanya receiving an award despite perceived lack of integrity.

Ugbebor confirmed a contract for the two second-floor flats, originally scheduled for delivery by February 28, 2019, a deadline that was not met.

He confirmed that the Lagos State Government had sealed the project site in 2019 and that the COVID-19 pandemic and rising construction costs affected the development, though these factors did not justify non-delivery.

He recounted that the first meeting with all parties occurred on August 28, 2023, at the EFCC’s Abuja office, where Olusanya allegedly informed attendees that the two flats had been sold, despite Ugbebor having paid Oak Homes Limited N152 million out of N190 million between November 2017 and December 2020.

Ugbebor said he was repeatedly notified by estate agents of attempts by the claimant (Olusanya) to sell each of the two flats at inflated prices: N310 million in January 2024, N360 million in February 2024, and N560 million in December 2024.

Responding to claims by Agboola (SAN) that he had agreed to a partial refund, which included N102 million already returned, Ugbebor described the allegation as “absolutely false,” noting he was in New York at the time and had not authorised any refund.

He emphasised that his primary interest was receiving the two flats, not a repayment.

He acknowledged filing a counterclaim but said he could not recall receiving an August 24, 2023 “cease and desist” order from Justice Ogunjobi, directing him not to visit the property.

When asked about his confidence in the judiciary, Ugbebor expressed “absolute trust” in the Nigerian judicial system.

EFCC counsel, Mr. M. A. Sheu, declined to cross-examine Ugbebor.

Justice Akingbola George adjourned proceedings to January 20, 2026, for continuation of the defence.

Lawyer Writes CJ, Seeks Withdrawal Of Case From Judge Over Alleged Partisanship, Manifest Bias

Human Rights lawyer, Victor Giwa, has petitioned the Chief Judge of the High Court of Justice of the Federal Capital Territory over allegation partisanship and manifest bias against a judge of the court, Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie.

Giwa and one other are standing trial over allegation of forgery.

The police had accused Giwa of forging letterhead paper of a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Chief Awa Kalu.

But Awa Kalu, in a letter to the Inspector General of Police, Mr Kayode. Egebtolun, put a lie to the allegation of the police against Bukola Ibitade and Giwa.

Despite the letter of Prof. Awa Kalu to the Inspector-General of Police, formally distancing himself from the allegation of forgery and impersonation against Giwa and Ibitade, the police have gone ahead to press charge against Giwa.

Chief Kalu, in a letter to the Inspector-General of Police, Mr Kayode Egbetokun, had said his letterhead was never forged and that he had not at anytime lodged any complaint to the police about forgery of his document.

Professor Kalu, in a letter dated May 30, 2025, addressed to the Inspector General of Police, clarified that he neither filed a complaint nor reported Mr. Giwa for allegedly forging his firm’s letterhead.

Giwa, in the letter to the CJ, dated November 12, 2025, said "My Lord, recall that I and the 2nd Defendant in this Charge were charged for the offences of conspiracy, forgery among others as shown on the face of the Charge Sheet attached to this Letter as “Annexure A”.

"On the 15th day of September 2025, the Court proceeded to hear the matter and issued bench warrant against me and the 2nd Defendant for failure to attend the Court's procecdings without assuring itself of personal service of the Charge on me; On the 8th day of Ocober 2025 when my bail application was heard and granted by the Court, the Court amended its Ruling on my bail application to include an order of detention should I ail to meet the stringent conditions of bail granted to me in my abeence and in the absence of ny Counsel. "

He said in the letter to the CJ that the court turther failed to hear his applications challengtig the jurisdiction of court and proceeded to hear the substantive matter on 30th Octaber, 2025.

He also said that on the 12th dav of November 2005, the court suo moto identified Motion No: M/13797/25 that i filed seeking the Court to recuse itself and started delivering its ruling on the sald Motion when the Motion had not yet been moved.

"It took the intervention of the Legal Adviser (LA) of the Court to pause the Ruling when His Lordship was about 2 minutes into the ruling, that was when the Court ordered the Motion to be moved.

"The lawyers in Court and I were shocked and I almost fainted in the Court betore I was called upon by the Court to move the said Motion. Other Lawyers in Court also wondered at what had happened in the course of the proceedings, seeing (he manifest bias and: partisanship exhibited by the Court against me. All the Lawyers tn court are all wilnens to the judicial absurdity and partisanship of His Lordship on the 12 of November , 2025

"My Lond, I do not believe that I can get substantial justice from the Court of Hon. Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie on the basis of manifest bias and partisanship shown apainst me as justice must not only be done but seen to have been done.

I humbty request for Hon. Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie presiding over the case to recuse himself from the case for manifest bias and conducts capable of ridiculing, the judiciary and undermining, the course of justice based on the above-mentioned grounds and others that will be stated in an Affidavit of Facts attached to this Letter."

Serial Fraudster,” IGP Egbetokun Orders Kennedy Iyere’s Probe over Alleged N113.5m Fraud

… Valencia Hotels, more victims petition the police boss

The Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered an investigation of the convener of the ‘40 Million Ballot Movement’ and founder of ‘Youths Off The Street Initiative’, YOTSI, Comrade Kennedy Iyere, for alleged criminal breach of trust, obtaining by false pretence, cheating, and impersonation.

The IGP’s directive followed a petition by Valencia Hotels and other persons allegedly defrauded by Iyere, where they described him as “a serial fraudster.”

In a November 12th, 2025 petition entitled “Further Petition Against Iyere Kennedy Ebhenya for Criminal Breach of Trust, Obtaining by False Pretence, Cheating, and Impersonation – Additional Victims Discovered,” and filed through their lawyers, Valen Legal Practitioners, the victims accused Iyere of defrauding them of various amounts totalling N113,508,757.

The petition, which was signed by Victor Adebayo Esq., read: “We continue to act as Solicitors to Silver Green Hotel Limited and several other individuals and corporate bodies who have been defrauded by one Iyere Kennedy Ebhenya, hereinafter referred to as ‘the suspect.

“Our earlier petition dated 23rd October 2025, which was assigned to the IGP SIU for further actions and investigation, detailed how the said suspect fraudulently obtained the sum of ₦26,000,000 from our client, Silver Green Hotel Limited, under the false representation that he was a staff of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development and that the government would sponsor a purported youth empowerment programme tagged ‘YEIDEP.’

"Following the filing of that petition and further investigations by our clients, several other victims of this same individual have now emerged, revealing that the suspect has carried out a pattern of identical fraudulent schemes against multiple unsuspecting persons and establishments.

"Below are the names of the additional victims and amounts fraudulently obtained from each: Mr. Clement Ignatius (₦6,300,000), Bishop (Dr.) Susan Great (₦1,600,000), Mr. Emeka Owuchelu Iche (₦46,000,000), Mr. Gbenga Okenla (₦1,500,000), Pastor Shadrack (₦18,000,000), Dr. Duru (₦12,000,000), Mr. Obinna Ukor (₦7,500,000), Mr. Aneke Everistus (₦3,015,900), Mr. Obinna Ifeandu (₦17,137,900), and Valencia Hotels (₦454,957).

"These victims, just like our earlier client, were deceived through similar misrepresentations, false promises of government-backed projects, and impersonation of officials of various Ministries and Departments. The suspect has thereby obtained huge sums of money from the public under fraudulent pretences, constituting serious economic and cyber-related crimes.”

The petitioner, therefore, urged the IGP to further investigate and bring Iyere to book.

“We humbly urge your esteemed office to reopen and expand the ongoing investigation into the activities of Comrade Kennedy Iyere (a.k.a. Iyere Kennedy Ebhenya) to cover these new victims and their respective complaints; invite and interrogate the suspect to account for the said funds obtained under false pretences; and ensure prosecution of the suspect upon conclusion of the investigation to serve as a deterrent to others engaged in similar economic sabotage and cyber fraud activities.

“We most humbly undertake that the receipts of payments made by each person to the suspect will be provided to your office upon request.

“We trust in your usual professionalism and diligence in bringing this serial fraudster to justice", the petitioner concluded.

Meanwhile, findings show that another victim, simply identified as Sandra, who was allegedly defrauded by Iyere with a promise to help secure her a government appointment, had since recovered her money through the assistance of the police.

He reportedly pleaded not to be charged to court and promised to refund the money. However, the police allegedly refused to grant him bail until repayment was completed, as he was said to have no known residential address.

A source familiar with the case said: “Yes, he sweet-talked the lady and some others into believing that he had government appointment slots to give. But it later turned out to be false.”

Students in the country have called for the expansion of digital learning initiative in tertiary institutions Ross the country, particularly, in Colleges of Education.

According to them, the EDON Electronic Education Initiative has contributed to the advancement of digital education across tertiary institutions.

Comrade Kur Isaac Ushahemba,
National President, National Association Of Nigeria Colleges Of Education Students (NANCES), said in Abuja that
EDON has empowered Universities, Polytechnics, and much importantly the Colleges of Education with tools that enhance global learning, modern teaching methods, and seamless classroom interactions.

He said, "We specifically appreciate the EDON Electronic Education Initiative for its trailblazing contributions to advancing digital education across tertiary institutions. EDON has empowered Universities, Polytechnics, and much importantly the Colleges of Education with tools that enhance global learning, modern teaching methods, and seamless classroom interaction.

"Our Colleges are witnessing a historic transformation—where technology now shapes not only how lecturers teach, but also how students learn, collaborate, and engage both within and beyond the classroom environment.

"NANCES acknowledges EDON as a strong partner in building a future-ready education system for Nigeria."

In recognition of the visible impact of EDON’s work, NANCES calls on the Federal Ministry of Education,
TETFund, the Committee of Provosts for Colleges of Education and the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE) to support the expansion, deepening, and institutionalization of the EDON Electronic Education Initiative’s *98inch QR Interactive Board and the EDON 3D Animation Simulation (Software) in all Colleges of Education across Nigeria.

According to the students, this expansion will improve digital literacy among teachers-in-training, upgrade ICT-enabled teaching and learning platforms, advance classroom technology adoption, enhance students' global competitiveness and strengthen Nigeria’s teacher education system

He said, "NANCES remains committed to constructive advocacy that strengthens teachers education and elevates the standard of learning in Nigeria. We believe that with the continued support of the President, TETFund, NCCE, the Committee of Provosts, and strategic partners like EDON, the future of teacher education in Nigeria is bright and secured."

They commemeded President Bola Tinubu, under whos leadership, teacher training institutions have experienced renewed attention, improved policy direction, and increased support toward digital innovation, curriculum enhancement, and educational development.

They commended the Executive Secretary and Management team of TETFund, headed by Arch Sonny Ochono, as well as the founder of Electronic Education Initiative, Dr. IDonuagbe Akogun, for their hardwork and commitment to education enhancement across the tertiary education system engaging and enhancing EDTech in our schools through I his interactive boards and development of 3D animation software

They also lauded the Executive Secretary of NCCE Prof. Paulinus Chijioke and his Management team and the Committee of Provosts of Colleges of Education for their tireless efforts in ensuring that Colleges of Education receive the needed attention for academic and infrastructural development and their collaboration and advocacy which continue to sustain the momentum for growth within the sector.

Court Grants Prosecution's Request To Regularise Motion For Additional Witness In N152m Property Fraud By Olukayode Olusanya


Justice Musa Kakaki of the Federal High Court, Lagos, has granted the prosecution’s request to regularise its application for an additional witness in the ongoing trial of property developer, Olukayode Olusanya.

Olusanya is facing allegations of N152m property fraud.

Prosecution Counsel, CSP Monday Omo-Osagie, had filed the application dated October 23, 2025, praying the court to add another witness to the case.

In his ruling, Justice Kakaki granted the application as prayed and also directed the prosecution to serve the defence with the amended application for a virtual hearing within 14 days, while the defence must respond before the next adjourned date.

“The application is granted as prayed. The prosecution is to serve the amended application to the defence within 14 days, and the defence to respond before the next adjourned date,” the judge ruled.

Olusanya, the Chief Executive Officer of Oak Homes Limited, is standing trial alongside his company, on a four-count charge of conspiracy, obtaining money by false pretence, fraud, and stealing, brought by the Nigeria Police Force.

The defendants were arraigned on November 26, 2024, and pleaded not guilty to all charges.

According to the police, between November 8, 2017, and August 4, 2020, Olusanya and one Ms. Lynda Umeh, the company’s Head of Sales and Marketing (now at large), allegedly defrauded a Nigerian-American engineer, Mr. Anthony Ugbebor, of N152m.

The duo, the police claimed, purportedly collected the funds under the pretext of selling two three-bedroom apartments at Oak Residence, Victoria Island, Lagos, promising delivery by February 28, 2019, but never handed over the property.

Earlier, at the resumed hearing of the case on Tuesday, Omo-Osagie told the court that the matter was for continuation of trial by virtual hearing, as earlier requested in an application filed on July 25, 2025.

However, defence counsel Agboola Adeleke (SAN) objected, arguing that the prosecution had not served the application for a virtual hearing on the defence.

“I am completely opposed to the virtual trial.

"This is a criminal trial; the parties should be present physically. In any case, we have not been served. If the prosecution is not ready, they should close their case,” Adeleke said.

Responding, Omo-Osagie told the court that the application was duly filed through the court registrar and that he was informed a copy had been lodged with the court’s registry.

“I made inquiries from the registrar and did the needful. That is why this virtual set-up was arranged. However, since the court has said it was not properly processed, we are asking for time to regularise the application,” he said.

The case has been filurther fixed for February 9, 2026.

De Ambassadors Global Network, an emerging powerhouse in African creative media, has announced its mission to reshape global narratives by telling Africa’s authentic story to the world.

Founder and Project Director, Jennifer Chi Ikeaba Obiasor, described the network as a trailblazing African media and storytelling platform dedicated to projecting the continent’s true image — powerfully, proudly, and unapologetically.

According to Obiasor, De Ambassadors represents a new generation of storytellers and changemakers committed to celebrating Africa’s brilliance, its people, heritage, innovation, and unbreakable spirit—both on the continent and across the globe.

She said, “De Ambassadors Global Network is redefining what it means to be Africa’s pride. Through bold storytelling and transformative initiatives, we highlight the continent’s achievements in entertainment, culture, sports, innovation, and leadership, inspiring a renewed global appreciation for the African experience.”

Obiasor outlined several flagship projects of the organization, including:

The Compendium of Top African Performers — a landmark publication celebrating exceptional Africans shaping global change and inspiring future generations.

Top Nigerian Performers Across the Globe (Nigeria @66 Edition) — a major national and diaspora project recognizing Nigerians breaking boundaries worldwide, featuring profiles, awards, and international showcases in celebration of Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.

Television Documentaries and Cultural Series — immersive productions showcasing Africa’s traditions, lifestyles, and untold stories to audiences around the world.

De Ambassadors Global Network TV Sports Series — a dynamic program spotlighting African athletes and their inspiring journeys on the global stage.

Fashion, Music, and Talent Events — colorful celebrations of creativity, youth expression, and African excellence.

Investment and Economic Development Forums — high-impact gatherings connecting entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers to drive Africa’s economic transformation narrative.

African Traditional Food Concept and Guinness World Record Project — a visionary initiative celebrating Africa’s diverse culinary heritage through a large cultural carnival and a Guinness World Record attempt. The project aims to showcase traditional African cuisines, promote unity, tourism, and cultural pride, and highlight the artistry and global appeal of African gastronomy.


Obiasor emphasized that the network’s vision is “to become the global beacon of African storytelling — a platform where Africa speaks for itself, to itself, and to the world with confidence, pride, and purpose.”

Academy Gets NBTE Accreditation For Leathercraft, Footwear Training



School Hunters Academy for Leathercraft and Footwear Innovation, Abuja, has been accredited by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE).

Also, the institution received a further boost with its certification by
the National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB) as a recognized skills training centre authorized to deliver Technical and Vocational Education and Training
(TVET) Initiative of the Federal Ministry of Education under the Renewed Hope Agenda of the federal government.

According to Dr Oluwashola Okpodu, Group Managing Director of School Hunters, the accreditation empowers the Academy to train and certify Nigerian youths in Leathercraft, Footwear Production, and Allied Skills and also equipping them with the National Skills Qualification (NSQ), a nationally and internationally recognized benchmark for technical competence.

Dr Okpodu said, "As part of this milestone, School Hunters Academy has also partnered with the African
University of Science and Technology (AUST) Inspire, a leading innovation and
entrepreneurship hub. This collaboration bridges academic research and practical skill application, offering learners a unique blend of technical craftsmanship, design innovation, and entrepreneurial
training needed to compete globally."

She describes it as “a defining moment for vocational education in Nigeria,”
reaffirming the Academy’s commitment to bridging the gap between unemployment and technical
empowerment. She emphasized that the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s drive to eradicate poverty, promote self-reliance, and reduce unemployment through skill
acquisition and enterprise development.

"The Academy, operating from Kabuka Studio 9, AfDB Building, AUST Campus, Abuja, will serve as a hub for creativity, innovation, and industry-standard technical learning. Learners will
receive hands-on training in bag making, footwear production, shoe repairs, and leather accessories, culminating in NABTEB-issued certifications recognized both nationally and
internationally.

"This ensures that graduates can either build thriving enterprises locally or access global opportunities within the creative and manufacturing sectors.
Through this accreditation, School Hunters Academy contributes meaningfully to nationbuilding and human capital development, offering renewed hope for the Nigerian youth.

"The initiative stands as a testament to Nigeria’s growing commitment to empowering its young population with employable skills, fostering innovation, and unlocking pathways to sustainable
livelihoods in alignment with global standards", she said.

The absence of a technical crew needed to facilitate the virtual appearance of a Nigerian-American engineer, Mr Anthony Ugbebor, in a property dispute, stalled the case before a Lagos State High Court, sitting in Tafawa Balewa Square, has

A property developer, Mr Olukayode Olusanya and his company, Oak Homes Limited, sued Ugbebor, the Nigerian Police and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, over a property located in Victoria Island area of Lagos State.

At the resumed proceedings before Justice Akingbola George, the court was told that the team responsible for setting up the Zoom connection was not available.

Counsel to the first defendant, Mr Nasiru Salau, reminded the court that it had earlier granted leave for his client to join the proceedings virtually.

He said all necessary payments for the virtual link had been made, and the Zoom details were received and forwarded to the defendant last Fr

Salau explained that he contacted the court’s technical unit before the court began sitting and was informed that the technical team were on their way, adding that the same team was also scheduled to handle another virtual proceeding later that morning, between 10 am and 10:30 am, before the court.

He, therefore, requested a brief stand-down to allow time for the technical setup.

However, counsel to the claimants, Mr Adeleke Agboola (SAN), opposed the request, arguing that there was no certainty about when the technical team would arrive.

I am objecting to the stand down. The first defendant has been attending proceedings virtually, and this court usually sits at 9 a.m., even when there is no power supply. If they are not ready today, I will be asking for costs,” Agboola said.

In response, Salau dismissed the objection, stating, “The objection of the SAN is a misconception.

“It is not our duty to set up the Zoom link; the court has always handled that. We made the payment last week, and the link was sent. I will not concede any cost”.

Justice George subsequently adjourned the case to November 25, 2025, for the defence to open its case.

The claimants, Olusanya and Oak Homes Limited, in suit number LD/4471LM/2023, are suing Ugbebor (first defendant) and the EFCC (second defendant) over an alleged ownership dispute of a property valued at N152m.

the last hearing, Olusanya, who is the Chief Executive Officer of Oak Homes Limited, denied receiving a letter purportedly sent by the EFCC on September 13, 2023, inviting him to collect a bank draft of N102m from the Commission.

During cross-examination by EFCC counsel Mr E.S. Okongwu, Olusanya testified that he never received any letter or call from the EFCC regarding the draft.

He confirmed that the bank draft remains in the EFCC’s custody.

The matter, which had been scheduled for the defence to open its case on October 20, 2025, was adjourned due to the technical hitch that disrupted Monday’s proceedings.

Community NewsInternational
UFUK Dialogue International Eyes Partnership With Ejigbo LCDA For Community Development.
By the investigator On Oct 17, 2025
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Emmanuel lkpeama

In a bid to foster community growth and development,The President of UFUK Dialogue International, Mr. Emrah İlgen,has paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Chairman of Ejigbo LCDA, Aare Taoheed Adebayo to discuss potential partnership opportunities that will benefit residents and promote collective progress.



The President who was received by the Executive Chairman of Ejigbo LCDA,Aare Tahoeed Adebayo Taiwo stated that their visit is aimed to strengthen collaboration between UFUK Dialogue International and Ejigbo LCDA, with a focus on promoting community development and empowerment.




During the meeting, both parties discussed potential partnership opportunities in various areas, including youth empowerment, leadership development, peace building, and community growth.



Provide leadership development training and mentorship for community leaders and collaborate with the LCDA on projects that stimulate economic growth and improve living standards.



Responding the Executive Chairman of Ejigbo LCDA, Aare Taiwo assured them of the Local government support and engagement in bringing developmental projects that would take Ejigbo to a greater heights.



Read also:Ejigbo LCDA:Jakande Estate, Oke-Afa Plank Market Back Aare Taiwo’s Administration, Pledge Support



Investigator news gathered that through this partnership, UFUK and Ejigbo LCDA are committed to creating a brighter future for the community.



Those in attendance are the Head of Administration, Ejigbo LCDA Pastor Olusegun Ajagunna,Rev. Stephen Oyinlola, JP, CAN Chairman, Ejigbo LCDA Bishop Ajose, and members of the UFUK International

Siblings Drag Singer, Uche Ibeto To Court Over Late Mum's Cash, Valuables, Property Documents

*Accuse her of defamation, seek 20m damages



The Administrator of the Estate of late Mrs Esther Ibeto, has dragged
Jigida singer, Uche Ibeto, before a High Court of Justice of Lagos state, over unlawful possession of the deceased property.

Uche is known for her popular music hit album, Jigida Dance in the 80s.

Led by the Administrator of the Estate, Mrs. Laura Chinyelu Okoh, in a suit filed through her Counsel, Barrister E. Omoijiade, dated October 2, 2025, accused their sister of unlawfully taking possession of cash, valuables, property title documents, and rental income belonging to the Estate after their mother's death.

They also accused Uche of sponsoring defamatory publications in the media against the Administrator and other members of the family.

Specifically, they mentioned a publication in Sahara Reporters, dated September 9, 2025, where she accused Mrs Okoh of conniving with a judicial officer to eject her from her home at 36, Ibezim Obianulu. street, Lagos, where she had lived.

But the Estate Administrator on behalf of the family prayed the court for an order of the court for Uche, who is the sole defendant in the matter to return all assets belonging to the Estate, provide a full account of the Estate's finances, and publish a retraction and apology for the defamatory statements.

The, plaintiff also asked the court to order monetary compensation of N10,000,000 for defamation and N10,000,000 for the cost of the legal action.

She further prayed the court for an order for Uche Ibeto to account for £10,000 (Ten thousand Pounds) allegedly withdrawn from their deceased mother's Barclays Bank account and a perpetual injunction restraining the Uche Ibeto from interfering with the Estate or publishing further defamatory statements.

In the statement of claim, deposed to, by the Estate Administrator, the Claimant in the matter, Mrs Okoh, avers that the Uche Ibeto without lawful authority from the administrators of the estate rented out various portions of the deceased's property, including the boys’ quarters, garages, and flats, and converted rental income of more than N25,000,000 (Twenty-Five Million Naira) to her personal use.

The Claimant further said despite repeated requests and demands, Uche Ibeto has persistently refused, neglected, and failed to provide an account for or retum the monies, valuables, and documents that were unlawtully removed from the deceased and the Estate.

"These assets, which are rightfully part of the Estate of the late Mrs. Esther Ibeto, remain in the Defendant's possession without lawful justification or explanation. In support of these claims, the Claimant will rely, at the trial of this suit, on a formal letter dated 20th August 2025, which was issued to the Defendant demanding the immediate retum of the Estate assets still held by her", she said.

The Claimant further stated that, following the Defendant's persistent refusal and neglect to account for the estate assets in her possession, as weil as her ongoing dissipation of the remaining assets, it became necessary to sell the house, in the best interest of the estate.

She said, "Considering these circumstances, and to protect and preserve the interests of all beneficiaries, the Claimant made the decision to sell the one-storey building situated at No. 36 Ibezim Obiajulu Street, Surulere, Lagos and share the proceeds realised among the beneficiaries of the estate, ensuring that each party received their rightful entitlement in accordance with the duties of the Administrator.

"Rather than providing a proper account of the estate properties in her custody, the Defendant responded by threatening to harass and embarrass the Claimant. The Defendant subsequently acted upon these threats by colluding with certain unscrupulous police officers to intimidate and arrest staff and employees of the Estate.

"The Claimant avers that on or about 2025, the Defendant caused and/or sponsored the publication of malicious, false and defamatory statements in the press, wherein she falsely represented herself (Uche Ibeto) as the owner of the Estate property, maliciously disparaged the Claimant in her capacity as Administrator, and misled the public as to the true ownership of the Estate's
assets.

"The said defamatory publications have lowered the Claimant in the estimation of right-thinking members of society, brought the administration of the Estate into disrepute, and injured the Estate's reputation.

The Administrator sought an order of the court restraining the defendant from further publishing defamatory statements in the media.

She prayed the court for N20m damages against the defendant.

As at the time of filing this report, Counsel to the Administrator said the Bailiff has been to her (Uche's) house at 21/25 Allen Avenue, Ikeja, but she refused service of the court papers.

No date has been fixed for the hearing of the case

Emmanuel lkpeama

The Institute of Entrepreneurship and Apprenticeship Management and Administration (IEAMA) recently organized the inaugural Finance Meet Entrepreneur 2025 forum,as stakeholders in Nigeria’s entrepreneurial and financial sectors emphasized the vital role of microfinance banks in unlocking the nation’s small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) potential.



In an event on Thursday 9, October 2025,organized by the Institute of Entrepreneurship and Apprenticeship Management and Administration (IEAMA)highlighted the crucial role of microfinance banks in driving small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) growth in Nigeria.

Experts emphasized the need for stronger linkages between financiers and entrepreneurs to promote innovation, job creation, and sustainable development.




The event, themed “Microfinance Banks as Catalysts for SMME Growth in Nigeria’s Economy,”brought together policymakers, entrepreneurs, and financial institutions to explore new pathways for SME financing and apprenticeship development.

The Acting Provost of Lagos State Cooperative College Lagos State, Dr. Adebosin Gbadebo,who is one the speakers at the event described microfinance banks as the backbone of Nigeria’s informal economy, which accounts for nearly 96% of all businesses and contributes about 40% to the country’s GDP.


Acting Provost of Lagos State Cooperative College Dr Gbadebo Walid delivering his keynote speech at the event


He emphasized the need for strengthening capacity building, ensuring affordable credit, and expanding financial literacy to sustain the impact of microfinance on job creation and poverty reduction.

“Without finance,no business can thrive,Microfinance banks exist to bridge the gap between excluded entrepreneurs and the capital they need to grow.

“They offer micro loans, savings, and advisory services to millions of Nigerians who would otherwise be left out of the financial system.”he said



Gbadebo noted that more than 800 licensed microfinance banks currently operate across the country,promotes financial inclusion and enterprise growth despite challenges of capitalisation and regulatory compliance.

The Acting Provost appealed to stakeholders to focus on strengthening capacity building, ensuring affordable credit, and expanding financial literacy to sustain the impact of microfinance on job creation and poverty reduction.




Mrs Adeogun Mojisola Abigail, Chief Operating Officer of Prospera Finance Limited.


She emphasized that microfinance banks provide financial inclusion, access to credit facilities, and capacity building for entrepreneurs.

Mrs Adeogun went further to note that microfinance banks have been instrumental in promoting financial inclusion, particularly in rural and underserved areas, stating that with over 800 microfinance banks in Nigeria, entrepreneurs can access loans and other financial services to grow their businesses.

The speaker also emphasized the importance of having a good credit score, stating that it enables entrepreneurs to access credit facilities from banks and other financial institutions.



Additionally, Adeogun advised entrepreneurs to be cautious when accessing loans and to ensure they do not default on payments, as this can negatively impact their credit score and ability to access future loans.

In his welcome address,the Registrar,Institute of Entrepreneurship and Apprenticeship Management and Administration (IEAMA) Dr. Jerry Ibeh, stated that the “Finance Meet Entrepreneur 2025” initiative was designed as a bridge between financiers and entrepreneurs, providing access to funding, mentorship, and technical guidance for emerging business owners.


Registrar of IEAMA,Dr Ibeh


He noted that the Institute which was founded in May 2025 was to professionalise entrepreneurship and apprenticeship by formalising Nigeria’s indigenous “Igba boy”model of enterprise mentoring, noting that the institute stands as a gap between entrepreneurs in making millions and driving the wave of economic transformation in Nigeria.

“At IEAMA, we believe entrepreneurship and apprenticeship are not just pathways to prosperity but the lifeblood of our nation’s future,”

“Microfinance banks are the spark that ignites this engine of progress — empowering small and micro businesses, reducing poverty, and building resilient communities.”



Ibeh explained that IEAMA’s membership system offers a structured pathway for entrepreneurs, from student to associate, full, senior, and fellow membership, ensuring continuous learning and accountability.

He disclosed that the institute had also secured partnerships with financial institutions and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to promote youth entrepreneurship through the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme.



Miss AmforGod Olisa,Secretary of IEAMA, said the Finance Meet Entrepreneur initiative would become an annual platform for entrepreneurs, financiers, and policymakers to share ideas and forge partnerships.

“This programme serves as a bridge between finance and enterprise — a marketplace of ideas and collaboration,”

“It is part of a broader vision to elevate entrepreneurship to a respected, professional, and sustainable career path.”she stated



Speaking with newsmen,Mr Umesegha Joshua Obinna,MD/CEO of Prospera Finance Limited opined that microfinance banks have been instrumental in promoting SME growth and development in Nigeria,by providing access to finance and capacity building, microfinance banks help entrepreneurs overcome challenges and achieve their business goals.

Umesegha emphasize that microfinance banks will continue to play a critical role in driving economic growth and development in Nigeria.

“With the right support and regulations, microfinance banks can increase their reach and impact, particularly in rural and underserved areas.”



He applauded the institute for making individuals to have an indepth knowledge of how they can finance and boost their business.



Lending his voice,Hon Dr Edwin Nwabaku urge youths to shun drugs and other social vices rather they should involve in a skill that would help them to unlock unprecedented opportunities for millions.

” Rather than blaming the government, the youths should engage themselves into entrepreneurship. Thank God IEAMA is creating a platform how you can get a soft loan to set and build your business ” he said



The forum concluded with a call for greater synergy between government, financial institutions, and professional bodies to scale entrepreneurship as a driver of Nigeria’s economic transformation.



Highlight of the event was the induction of some individuals as doctorate associate, full, senior, and fellow membership of the the Institute of Entrepreneurship and Apprenticeship Management and Administration (IEAMA)

Those inducted are;

Doctorate Fellow:

Hon Dr Edwin Nwabaku

Mrs Adeogun Mojisola Abigail

Mr Umesegha Joshua Obinna

Fellow:

Adebosin Gbadebo Walid

Joseph Igberi Atose

Engr Chijioke Collins

Balogun Sakiru Abiodu

Onyekachi Charles Chinedum

Senior Membership:

Allen Abieyuwa Nneoma

AmforGod Olisa

Ifediba Onyinyechi Judith

Comrade Emmanuel Clement

Associate Members:

Hamzat Omolade

Wilson Chimezie

Michael Offiong

Akinfenwa Opeyemi

Adedipe Precious

Adebowale Daniel

Ugbobuaku Isioma

How Court Turned Down Minister Nnaji's Request to Stop Release of Academic Record

Facts have emerged that the minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Mr Uche Nnaji, approached a Federal High Court in Abuja for an interim injunction barring the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, from releasing his academic record, an application turned down by the court.

The minister had dragged the Minister of Education, National Universities Commission, University of Nigeria, its Vice Chancellor, its Registrar and the Senate of the institution before the court, seeking a retaining order from acting on the request to release his records.

Justice Hausa Yilwa turned down the request.

The minister had prayed the court for an order granting leave to the Applicant to issue the prerogative writ of prohibition on the 3th - 5th and the 7th Respondents ( the VC, Registrar and Senate of the school) from tampering with or continuing to
tamper with the Applicant's academic records at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

He also prayed for an order granting him leave to issue the prerogative writ of mandamus compelling the 3rd - 5th and the 7th Respondents to release to the him his academic transcript at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

"An order granting leave to the Applicant to issue the prerogative writ of mandamus compelling the 1st and 2nd Respondents to ensure, utilising their supervisory and disciplinary powers, that the 3rd - 5th and the 7th Respondents release to the Applicant his academic transcript at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

"An interim order of injunction restraining the 3d - 5th and the 7th Defendants from tampering or continuing to tamper with the Applicant's academic records at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, pending the determination of the substantive Suit", he prayed the court.

However, after listening to the submission of Counsel, the court held, "I have therefore perused the 34 paragraph Affidavit and
the 6 paragraph Affidavit of urgency deposed to by the Applicant, the grounds upon which this application is made, the Exhibits attached thereto and the Further Affidavit of 6 paragraphs deposed to by Martin Luther Akawe.

"I have equally considered the Written Address of Counsel. I shall therefore refer to paragraphs 15, 16, 22, 23, 24, 25 and 29 of the Affidavit in support of this application, Exhibits 1-2D and paragraphs 3, 4 and 5 of the Further Affidavit.

"I'm of the humble view from the facts deposed in the affidavits, alongside the Exhibits attached, that the Applicant has sufficient interest in the matter to which this application relates. Thus, this application is meritorious. Consequently, I hereby grant prayer 1, 2 and 3 only.

"Prayer 4 is declined. Having been refused, the granting of reliefs 1-3 shall not serve as injunctive reliefs against any of the parties".

Recall that in a letter by the Vice Chancellor of UNN, Prof. Simon Ortuanya, to Premium Times newspaper dated October 2, 2025, the university had disowned Nnaji's certificate.

The university maintained that he did not complete his studies.

“We refer to your letter dated 29 September 2025 in respect of the above subject matter.

“We can confirm that Mr Geoffrey Uchechukwu Nnaji, with Matriculation Number 1981/30725, was admitted by the University of Nigeria, Nsukka in 1981.

“From every available records and information from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, we are unable to confirm that Mr Geoffrey Uchechukwu Nnaji, the current Minister of Science and Technology, graduated from the University of Nigeria in July 1985, as there are no records of his completion of study in the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

“Flowing from above, the University of Nigeria, Nsukka DID NOT and consequently, COULD NOT have issued the purported certificate, or at all, in July 1985 to Mr Geoffrey Uchechukwu Nnaji, the current Minister of Science and Technology. This conclusion is also in consonance with an earlier letter dated May 13, 2025, ref. No, RUN/SR/R/V, issued by the University to the Public Complaints Commission in respect of the same subject matter (copy attached),” Ortuanya wrote.

Instructively in his filing in the suit before the Federal High Court and also contrary to Nnaji's claim in a 10-page document, including a UNN degree certificate, submitted to the Senate in August 2023 for ministerial screening, he has made a volt face, admitting to not having been issued his degree certificate.

He submitted, “That even though I am yet to collect my certificate from the 3rd Defendant (UNN), due largely to the non-cooperative attitude of the 3rd–5th Defendants (UNN, its Vice-Chancellor, and Registrar), the 3rd Defendant issued a letter dated 21st December 2023 to People’s Gazette (attention: Samuel Ogundipe) which stated amongst other things as follows:

‘This is to confirm that Geoffrey Uchechukwu Nnaji, with registration number 1981/30725, was admitted in 1981 to study Microbiology/Biochemistry at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Mr Geoffrey Uchechukwu Nnaji graduated from the University of Nigeria in July 1985 with a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology/Biochemistry, Second Class (Hons.) Lower Division.’”

The suit must have been targeted at preventing media from getting a confirmation of the genuineness or otherwise of his purported degree certificate.

$4 Billion Refinery Fraud: Protesters Storm ICPC Headquarters, Call for Probe of MSM Group’s Connection to Missing Funds

Hundreds of protesters, led by the Concerned Lawyers and Citizens Network (CLCN), stormed the headquarters of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) in Abuja on Thursday demanding an immediate investigation into what they described as a massive $4 billion fraud involving the MSM Group and missing funds meant for Nigeria’s refinery rehabilitation.

In a speech delivered by Sambari G. Benjamin, Esq., the CLCN accused the MSM Group, a conglomerate with ties to Engineer Mele Kolo Kyari, former Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), of being a front for laundering stolen public funds.

The group pointed to the mysterious disappearance of $2.896 billion allocated for the rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna refineries, which remain non-functional despite the massive investment.

“We are here because something is deeply wrong,” Benjamin declared to a crowd of supporters and journalists.

“MSM Group is not just a business; it is a vessel of money laundering, a shell of secrecy, and a front for repurposing stolen public funds.”

The CLCN highlighted MSM Group’s recent $2.4 billion deal with the Kebbi State Government to build a cement plant, questioning the source of the funds and the company’s sudden emergence in industries ranging from oil and gas to cement and agriculture.

The protesters raised concerns about a conflict of interest, noting that a former bank account officer of Kyari is now a director at MSM Group, and the conglomerate has refused to disclose its investors or funding sources.

“How did MSM Group secure $2.4 billion with no prior footprint in cement?” Benjamin asked.

“Why do these funds correspond with the missing money meant for our refineries? This is not coincidence. This is corruption with a family name.”

The protesters demanded that the ICPC launch a full-scale investigation into MSM Group’s financial operations, uncover its links to Kyari’s tenure at NNPCL, expose its investors and directors, and recover every kobo diverted from the refinery funds.

They also called for accountability for all individuals involved, regardless of their influence.

“We speak for the mechanic in Kaduna, the mother in Warri, and the youth in Port Harcourt who have been robbed of opportunity, dignity, and truth,” Benjamin said.

“This is about justice and restoring faith in our institutions.”

The CLCN vowed to continue their agitation until the truth is revealed and justice is served, warning that Nigerians will not be silenced or intimidated.

“Let this day be remembered as the moment Nigerians stood up and said: Enough is enough with the theft of our commonwealth,” Benjamin concluded.

The late Esther Ibeto Family has written the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 2, Lagos, over the involvement of the men of the Nigerian Police in the administration of the estate of the family.

In a petition to the AIG, dated September 11, 2025, the expressed their concern over the interference of the police in the property dispute.

He called on the AIG to call all the policement invited to order and allow peace to reign on the property.

"On behalf of the family and as Administrator of the Estate of the Late Mrs. Esther Ibeto, i wish to express our deep concern regarding the recent involvement of police officers in matters relating to the administration of the Estate.

"The police are neither beneficiaries nor parties to the Estate. We are therefore surprised and disturbed by the direct interference, including the removal of our staff and workers from the property, which has disrupted the lawful management of the Estate.

"In view of these developments, we respectfully call the attention of the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) to this matter and urge that all officers involved be directed to refrain from further interference, while the family and Administrator complete the administration process in accordance with the law.

"The family maintains its firm position regarding the Estate and reiterates that any person or party wishing to challenge the administration should do so through the proper legal channels, namcly the courts, rather than through police intervention.

"Ms. Uche Ibeto is the third child of the Late Mrs Esther Ibcto. She is NOT the Administrator of the Estate and is NOT the owner of the property. She has absolutely no legal right, title, or authority to make unilateral claims over the Estate or to parade herself as the owner. Her actions amount to a deliberate usurpation of the powers of the Administrator and are unlawful.

"The property has been SOLD and the buyer took possession of the property as the rightful and lawful owner.

Uche Ibeto’s claim of ownership of property, unlawful eviction, totally false - Family

The family of veteran singer, Ms. Uche Ibeto, popularly known as the Jigida Queen, has put a lie to the allegation by the musician that he was thrown out of her late mum, Mrs. Esther Ibeto's house in Lagos.

The family in a statement signed by the Estate of Late Mrs. Esther Ibeto, said the claim by Uche was completely false and totally untrue.

According to the family, the properry was duely and lawfully sold, adding that the buyer took possession of the property as the rightful and lawful owner.

The family said the singer is the third child of the Late Mrs Esther Ibeto and NOT the Administrator of the Estate or the sole owner of the property.

The family said in a short statement, "the attention of the Estate of Late Mrs. Esther Ibeto has been drawn to spurious, malicious and utterly misleading publications recently sponsored in the press by Ms. Uche Ibeto, a disgruntled beneficiary of the Estate, who has deliberately sought to mislead the public and undermine the lawful administration of the Estate.

"Ms. Uche Ibeto is the third child of the Late Mrs Esther Ibeto. She is NOT the Administrator of the Estate and is NOT the sole owner of the property. She has absolutely no legal right, title, or authority to make unilateral claims over the Estate or to parade herself as the owner. Her actions amount to a deliberate usurpation of the powers of the Administrator and are unlawful.

"The property has been sold and the buyer took possession of the property as the rightful and lawful owner.

"The Estate wishes to state in the clearest possible terms that Ms. Uche Ibeto’s claim of ownership or allegations of unlawful eviction are completely and totally false. For the record and for all intents and purposes, the property belonging to the Estate of the Late Mrs. Esther Ibeto has been SOLD and there are no issues of forgery of any document with respect to the property."

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has welcomed the ban on exportation of raw Shea butter by President Bola Tinubu, saying the step will encourage more production and strengthen the local value chain of the prized cash crop.

The President’s directive comes as Kwara State prepares to launch its 50 tonne - daily capacity Shea processing factory in Kaiama, the second largest in the country and the biggest owned by a state government.

The Shea butter factory is one of the many economic projects of Governor AbdulRazaq.

Governor AbdulRazaq said the presidential directive will spur local production, improve quality, and generate jobs across the value chain.

He said the Shea butter factory in Kaiama is meant to stimulate economic activities in Kwara North, given its potential to hire a multitude of local workers, including women farmers and pickers.

“Locating the factory within Kaiama puts the people at the centre of local Shea production, ensures local ownership of benefits, such as job creation, reduced post harvest losses, and value retention in Kaiama,” the Governor said in a statement on Tuesday.

“This project exemplifies backward and forward integration as it combines raw material sourcing, processing, and market access in one locality.”

Kwara and Niger, among others, are the hearts of Shea nut trees in Nigeria. Kwara North alone is credited with over 250,000 nature and producing trees spread across 6,000 hectares of land.

Engr. Abiodun Ariori Seeks IGP Egbetokun Intervention Over Lagos Police Command’s Wanted Declaration, Denies Land Grabbing Allegation.
Emmanuel Clement

The last may not have been heard over last week fatal clash at Owode Onirin area of lagos State as Engineer Abiodun Ariori, CEO of Prosperous Ariori Golden Ventures Ltd, has reached out to the Inspector General of Police,IGP Kayode Egbetokun seeking intervention over the Lagos State Police Command’s declaration of him as wanted.

The Lagos State Police Command declared Ariori wanted in connection with a deadly clash at Owode Onirin, alleging his involvement in land grabbing activities.


Engr Abiodun


Ariori speaking with newsmen denies the allegations of land grabbing,while faulting the Lagos State Police Command’s declaration of him as wanted, describing it as premature, undemocratic, and an abuse of power.


He stated that the Command did not extend any formal invitation to him before making the declaration, which he believes has damaged his reputation and endangered his life.

Engineer Ariori, who posited that his undainted long standing image as a known property Developer is not in doubt, queried why the Lagos State Police Command jettisoned civilized method and international police investigation standard but rather chose to hurriedly declare him Wanted, even without recourse to accord him a formal police invitation through letter, telephone or text message.

According to him, ” In civilized climes, the right path to tow by the police, would have been to invite me to report to the command to state my own side of the matter or for questioning, but rather the Police Public Relations Officer, hurriedly rushed to condemn ,judged and painted me a Land Grabber ,while declaring me wanted, thereby destroying my hard earned reputation over the years, without giving me the right of hearing and Constitutional right of presumption of innocence until found guilty”.

The Engineer ,who said he is traumatized by the Lagos State Police Command actions, denied being on the run from the state Police command,as according to him,the investigation by the State Command appears to be a duplicity,as the land issues was already before the AIG Zone 2, where he said he was with his lawyer and other invited persons, few hours before hoodlums invaded his Company’s property space, attacked and wounded his Company’s officially approved Mobile police guards .



He debunked the State Police Command allegations, querying thus : “How can i be on run from the same State Police command,whose operatives had assisted my Company in executing the valid Court Judgements regarding the possession of the same land at Kilometer 13, Owode Onirin.

“Does it make any sense that I should be on the run when my multi million Naira property was what was destroyed by the hoodlums . Besides, even the legality of our possession of the land is also known to the Governor of the State, The Attorney General of the State and the State Building Control Agency”.he said

Ariori went further to plead with the Inspector General of Police,IGP Egbetokun to urgently intervene and save his life from what he called obvious gang up, just as he alerted the general public,over threats to his life, adding that his life is in grave danger and seriously subjected to threats by persons unknown.



He noted that the State Police Command pre- judgmentally and unilaterally declared him Wanted” over the incident he said he was not found within the vicinity of the crime scene,noting that he became traumatized when his family members,friends,associates and business partners drew his attention to the Commands announcement, hence he resorted to hide and protect himself from looming danger to his life , especially” as the unnecessary police public declaration indicates that he most likely will not get fair hearing from the command that had called him a Land Grabber without any factual evidence”.

While giving his own side of the story regarding the fatal incident at Owode Onirin last week, through a telephone interview, Engineer Ariori,debunked the allegation by the Police that he is a land grabber, stating vividly that he is the sole legitimate representative of the rightful owners of the property known as B.I . Olowu family .



” The truth is that Land Grabbers do not go into the kind of physical structural development that our company is doing at Kilometer 13 Owode Onirin, they do not invest money, build and turn virgin landed property to modern master piece, what they do is to take people’s land and sell them off immediately and run away”, he enlightened .

Expressing disappointment over the Lagos State Command allegation that his police guards were on illegal duty at the scene of the incident, Engineer Ariori, tendered series of approvals letters from 2020 , including the most recent letter of August 8, 2025, issued by the mobile police top hierarchy in Abuja.

“My Company has been assigned with police guards through proper approvals since 2020, which has always been revalidated every year, including this month August,2025, and all these facts are in the database of the Lagos State Police Command, so how could the State Police Image Maker accuse me of using officers on illegal duty?

“Besides, it should concern the Authority to fish out the sponsors of the hoodlums who invaded our legitimate space and attacked and wounded Police officers that were on lawful duty , instead of rushing to make spurious allegations against me without proper verification”, Ariori said.



Highlighting on the Genesis of the case, Engineer Ariori’s Lawyer, Barrister Monye Francis of Monye, Monye & Co Chamber, in an interview with our Correspondent, confirmed that he visited the Police Public Relations Officer , CSP Benjamin Hundenyin and the Commissioner of Police on thursday and Friday last week, shortly after the Police Command declared his Client wanted,to avail the Command of his Clients side of the Story ,as well as to State the true position of the case , armed with valid documentary evidence.

Barrister Monye, also confirmed that the matter was already before the AIG Zone 2, through petitions by the parties involved, before the sudden invasion and destruction of his Clients property valued at N560, 000,000 million , being total value of the various and series of destruction within a short period of time.

Explaining further, he said, ” What happened last week at my Clients property space, was a coordinated unlawful invasion and attack with the aim of assassinating Engineer Abiodun Ariori, because the very vehicle vandalized and damaged was his operational vehicle, hence it is rational to conclude that the attackers thought he was inside the vehicle at the time of invasion, whereas the occupants were the Company’s officially approved police guards”.



On the issue of the land ownership , Barrister Monye stated thus: ” Prosperous Ariori Golden Ventures Ltd, headed by Engineer Abiodun Akeem Ariori, is the sole Representative and Power of Attorney holder of the land in question measuring 4.4 hectares of land, known as Kilometer 13 Owode Onirin, with Survey plan- MAl/121/97,situated along Ikorodu road, belonging to B.I.Olowu family, which they bought about 52 pounds in 1957 , from the indigenous owners.

The lawyer narrated that ” Early in 1990, kosofe/ Shomolu local Government Area and some persons unknown started trespassing on the land, hence the family instituted a legal action in 1994, delineated as Suit No. ID/1757/94, before Justice A. O . Holloway, filed through a veteran lawyer,Barrister Adedeji Adekoya.

“On June 2nd 1998, the family won the case and court awarded damages against the local government Area and other defendants.However, series of litigations cropped up and even there was an Appeal delineated as CA/L/523/2017, where Bode Olowu, Femi Olowu and Benson Ojeifo representated B .I.Olowu family against Shomolu local government, Agbajowa Market Association and others unknown. The Court of Appeal once again upheld the Rights of the B.I. Olowu family and deleted their opponents rights of Appeal, “Barrister Monye stated.



Continued He , “Despite these judgment, some illegal occupants and some Owode Onirin people continued their incursions and erection of illegal shanties, leading to the family between 2012 and 2019 applying for certificate of possession, known otherwise as Form O from the Court”.

In a post judgement application , on June 20,2024,” the family also sought for and got legal approval from Justice M.A.Savage , in line with the Order of the Court permitting the Family to take possession, removing shanties ,illegal structures and occupants with the assistance of the court Bailiffs,Sheriffs , Officers from the Lagos State Police Command and the lagos State Task Force, which Prosperous Ariori Golden Ventures Ltd handled on behalf of the family, thereby dislodging criminal elements who had tuned the place to their den .They were other executions of Court Judgement in 2001,2009,2012,2024″, Money said.



The legal luminary revealed that,”It is on record that the Governor and Attorney General of the state are aware of the property and had intervened , resolved issues and set modalities between the local government , Market Association and the family . Even Surveyors from the Lagos State Office of the Surveyor General, using drones , had also clarified the status quo for the lagos State Building Control Agency before possession was taken by the family”.

Barrister Monye, therefore called on the Inspector General of Police to urgently intervene and hand over the matter to a specialized police team, to ensure justice, equity,fairness and unbiased investigation.

He insisted that his client life has been endangered and under threat following the state police command declaring him wanted,hence his client posited that he has lost confidence in the “biased investigation process by the Lagos State Police Command”, whom his Client accused of having arbitrarily “adjudged him guilty, branded ,tagged him a Land Grabber and declared him Wanted before the media, without even extending invitation to him or hearing from him”.

Further clarifying issues, the Lawyer also insisted that his Client is not a land Grabber and not running away from the Police, noting that” no form of invitation was extended to him before the public embarrassment of declaring him wanted, which has destroyed his reputation , despite that he was not involved or present at the scene of the clash between hoodlums and the police guards”.



Regretting the colossal lost incurred by his Client, the Lawyer estimated that Prosperous Ariori Golden Ventures Ltd has lost over N560,000 000 through the five different invasions within a short time, as well as wilful destruction of the company’s CCTV surveillance cameras, fence, canopy, iron rods ,Blocks making machines , 20,000 moulded blocks, operational vehicle and other building materials from the various attacks and destruction within some months.



Investigator news reports that to ensure a thorough investigation, Barrister Monye has further pleaded with the IGP to avail himself with past and present investigations records from the Police Division that covers the area, the State Command, AIG Zone 2, AIG Alagbon,Homicide department , Lagos State Building Control Agency and the State Taskforce on land grabbing , adding that” the Police Chief will be shocked to find out that same sponsored hoodlums had in the past also harassed and attacked Police officers from the state command, Zone 2, lagos State government Surveyors and even snatched rifle from officers, which were later recovered without culprits prosecuted”.

It would be recalled that last week, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the Lagos State Police Command’s spokesperson, had announced in a statement on Wednesday that an officer was also severely injured in the conflict, which occurred in the Owode Onirin area.

According to him “In the course of the preliminary investigation and prima facie evidence available, one Abiodun Ariori, CEO of Prosperous Ariori Golden Venture Limited, is connected to the deadly clash between the traders and the land grabbers.

“He is hereby declared wanted by the Lagos State Police Command, as all efforts to effect his arrest and bring him to justice have so far proved abortive. It is very clear that he has gone into hiding,” Hundeyin stated.

However, the Lawyer faulted the Commands allegations and further maintained that the State Command did not trade with caution before making their declarations against his client, as no effort was made to invite Engineer Ariori at all, which contradicted earlier public pronouncement by the State Police Image Maker.

2027: Okotie speaks on coalition move

Former presidential candidate and Shepherd Superintendent of the Household of God Church, Rev Chris Okotie, in a terse statement circulated in the media on Wednesday, reacted to the ongoing political realignment ahead of the 2027 polls:

_“The political pendulum now swings within the axis of permutation and punditry.

"The set alarm will trigger an unprecedented frenzy that culminates in stupefying bedlam!” he said