The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has issued a strong call for justice in what it describes as a disturbing case of land fraud and obstruction of justice in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), threatening mass action if authorities fail to intervene.
In a statement released by its Executive Director, Dr. Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi, CHRICED expressed grave concern over the alleged illegal occupation of Plot 4022 in Abuja's Guzape District by one Rebecca Omokamo, also known as Bilikisu Aliyu.
Widow's Property Rights Under Threat
At the center of the controversy is 79-year-old widow Madam Collen Mero Yesufu, who claims rightful ownership of the disputed property. According to CHRICED, despite multiple investigative reports from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), and the Department of Development Control confirming irregularities, the alleged perpetrator remains shielded from arrest by armed police officers.
The human rights organization specifically called out Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, accusing him of failing to enforce existing court orders while allegedly providing illegal police protection to the suspect.
Demands and Threatened Actions
CHRICED has issued several demands, including the immediate withdrawal of all police officers allegedly deployed to protect Bilikisu Aliyu at the disputed plot. The organization warned that if this "illegal protection" persists, they will "escalate legal challenges, including public interest litigation, formal petitions, and mass civic action."
The group also called for "uncompromised EFCC intervention," urging the anti-graft agency to "resist intimidation and ensure that justice is served without interference." Additionally, CHRICED demanded "a firm judicial response," asking Nigerian courts to "reject delay tactics and uphold justice."
Justice must not only be done but it must also be seen to be done.
Legal Implications
In its statement, CHRICED cited several provisions of Nigerian law that criminalize obstruction of justice and abuse of office, including Sections 126 and 518 of the Criminal Code and Sections 97 and 104 of the Penal Code.
The organization drew parallels between this case and that of former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, where security operatives were allegedly used to frustrate an EFCC arrest, warning that "we must not allow our justice system to be held hostage by impunity."
Call for Broader Investigation
Beyond the immediate case, CHRICED has called for a broader investigation into the role of the police by the National Assembly, Police Service Commission, and the Code of Conduct Bureau. The organization also appealed directly to President Bola Tinubu to intervene, warning that continued inaction would further erode public confidence in the rule of law.
As the situation develops, observers note that this case highlights ongoing concerns about property rights protection and the integrity of law enforcement in Nigeria's capital territory.