By Kenneth Onoh, Abuja
Public concern is mounting over allegations that operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have occupied a residential property in Guzape, Abuja, despite an ongoing court case over its ownership.
The property, located at Plot 4022, Cadastral Zone A09, Guzape, is occupied by the family of Amb. Dr. Rebecca Omokamo Godwin-Isaac, who alleged that EFCC operatives have denied them access to the residence while the ownership dispute remains before the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
According to the family, the matter is pending before the FCT High Court, presided over by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, and has been adjourned until September for ruling. They contended that the alleged occupation of the property before the court's decision raises concerns over due process and respect for judicial proceedings.
A legal practitioner, Mr. M. I. Ibekwe, described the reported development as a test of Nigeria's commitment to the rule of law, arguing that no institution should take actions capable of creating the impression that a pending case has already been determined.
He said that once a matter is before a competent court, all parties and public institutions are expected to exercise restraint until judgment is delivered, adding that any action suggesting otherwise could undermine confidence in the judiciary.
The family further alleged that the development has left minor children, including Jadidah Ishaku-Yusuf and her younger siblings, unable to access their home.
"Even the children, who are not parties to the dispute, have been subjected to distress as a result of the unresolved legal matter.
The family maintained that Godwin-Isaac lawfully acquired the property from Architect Richard Idakwogi John of Rychado Homes Limited and took possession of the residence in 2024.
Jadidah Ishaku-Yusuf appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and relevant authorities to intervene, expressing concern that her family had been prevented from accessing the property despite the case remaining before the court.
Also commenting on the matter, public affairs analyst and media practitioner, Comrade Buba Ibrahim, urged the EFCC to clarify the legal basis for its reported actions, stressing that law enforcement agencies must operate within the bounds of the Constitution and respect ongoing judicial processes.
He warned that allowing actions perceived as prejudging a pending case could erode public confidence in the justice system, adding that the welfare of the affected children should be given urgent attention.
Concerned Nigerians have also called on the President, the Attorney-General of the Federation, the EFCC leadership, the Nigerian Bar Association and human rights organisations to investigate the circumstances surrounding the reported occupation of the property and ensure full respect for the pending court proceedings.
The EFCC had not issued an official response to the allegations as of the time of filing this report.
