The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED), a civil society organisation, has raised alarm over delays in enforcing a court order concerning a disputed property linked to a 79-year-old widow, Collen Mero Yesufu.
In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Dr. Ibrahim Zikirullahi, CHRICED criticised what it described as troubling signs of impunity in the enforcement of legal rulings. The organisation pointed to continued occupation of Plot 4022 in Abuja’s Guzape district by an individual accused in a land fraud case—despite an existing court order for the property’s forfeiture.
The group expressed concern that law enforcement agents allegedly providing cover for the suspect may be undermining judicial authority. “The situation, if verified, could reflect a breach of legal protocol under Section 126 of Nigeria’s Criminal Code,” CHRICED noted.
Allegations in the case include criminal trespass, forgery, and fraudulent acquisition of property. CHRICED drew attention to wider implications, warning that public trust in the rule of law is at risk if court decisions are not respected.
The group called for the immediate withdrawal of any police personnel linked to the ongoing occupation and urged relevant institutions, including the EFCC, to act independently and thoroughly. It also pressed oversight bodies such as the National Assembly, Police Service Commission, and Code of Conduct Bureau to probe alleged misconduct.
CHRICED further appealed to President Bola Tinubu to ensure that justice is delivered swiftly and without bias. The group stated that failure to correct the situation may prompt it to pursue legal and civic channels to ensure compliance and accountability.
