By Philip Nwosu

The ruling, delivered over the weekend under suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/1130/2025, followed a suit filed by JonahCapital Nigeria Limited and Houses for Africa Nigeria Limited, a consortium linked to renowned Ghanaian businessman Sir Samuel Esson Jonah, Kojo Ansah Mensah, and Victor Quainoo. The suit also included Abuja-based lawyer, Abu Arome, as a co-applicant.

The investors accused senior Nigerian law enforcement officers of incessant harassments, arbitrary arrests, and abuse of power over a civil property dispute. They are seeking N200 million in exemplary damages for alleged violations of their fundamental rights.

Defendants in the suit include, FCT Commissioner of Police, Ajao Saka Adewale, DCP Akin Fakorede, Head of the IGP Monitoring Unit, EFCC Zonal Commander, Michael Wetkas, EFCC investigator, Eunice Vou Dalyop and another individual, identified as  Kabiru Baba.

The plaintiffs contend that these officials have consistently harassed their staff members, issued police invitations under duress, and even resorted to physical intimidation—all in connection with ownership claims to Plot No. 4, Cadastral Zone E30, River Park Estate, Abuja.

In granting the interim reliefs, the court issued two key orders, including an order of interim injunction restraining the respondents from inviting, intimidating, harassing, arresting, or detaining the plaintiffs or their representatives pending the hearing of a motion on notice, an order restraining the respondents from obstructing the plaintiffs’ access to, use of, and peaceful enjoyment of the disputed property.

The court’s decision came amidst accusations that the police had previously concluded an investigation through a Special Investigation Panel (SIP), headed by DCP Usman Ahmed Imam. The SIP report was reportedly submitted to the IGP, with a directive to the CP (Legal) for further review. However, while the findings remain unpublished, the investors claim they are being subjected to a fresh and more aggressive probe led by DCP Fakorede—raising questions about due process.

The investors argue that what began as a civil dispute over land ownership has now escalated into a diplomatic embarrassment. They allege that the EFCC detained one of them under questionable circumstances and that the security agencies’ actions reflect a deliberate attempt to criminalize a civil matter.

They have since petitioned the Police Service Commission, demanding an inquiry into the alleged abuse of authority and professional misconduct by officers involved.

The legal battle has triggered public discourse about the implications for Nigeria’s investment climate, particularly at a time when the Tinubu administration claims to have secured over $30 billion in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) commitments.

Critics warn that high-profile incidents like the River Park saga can erode investors’ confidence, sending conflicting signals to the international business community.