Author: Emmanuel

The Chief Judge of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Justice Hussein Baba Yusuf, has ordered Uche Okoli and his property firm, Multi-shelter Nigeria Limited to vacate a property located at Plot No. 713, Cadastral Zone B14, Duste District, Abuja, for one Dr. Ngozika Nwaneri.

The court also awarded the sum of N10m against Uche Okolj and his company as general damages for trespass and N1m as the cost of the action and another N162m and N28m to a Subscriber and 3rd Defendant/Counter Claimant, Mr. Henry Anuforo, as the cost he spent on building on part of Plot 713 Dutse, sold to him by Multi-Shelter.

Uche Okoli, his firm and 18 others had dragged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Dr Ngozika Nwaneri, a United States based surgeon and businessman before the court over the ownership of Plot 713, Cadastral Zone B14, Dutse District, Abuja.

Okoli is the 1st Claimant while his firm is the 2nd claimant. Dr Nwaneri on his part filed a counterclaim, through his counsel, Dr. Lilian Ojimma, which makes him the 2nd defendant and counter claimant in the suit.

In 2005, Dr Nwaneri engaged
Uche Okoli, the MD of Multi-Shelter Ltd, to acquire plots of land for him in Abuja, and in furtherance of the engagement, Okoli got and presented to Dr Nwaneri, papers in respect of three Plots of Land, one each in Katampe Extension District, Sector C District, and Asokoro IV District, all within Abuja, as the Plots he purchased for him. Dr Nwaneri subsequently engaged one Mr. Victor Muoneke, a legal practitioner, as his attorney to register his title to the three plots.

However, the search reports that Mr. Muoneke obtained from Abuja Geographic Information Systems (AGIS) in his bid to register the 2nd Defendant’s title to the Plots revealed the titles to the various properties to be unauthentic, when confronted about the report, Uche Okoli explained that he purchased the Plots from one Aminu Ibrahim Gaya who worked with the Federal Capital Development Authority.

Uche Okoli and Gaya were arraigned by the EFCC in court but Okoli was later used as prosecution witness against Gaya after settling Dr. Nwaneri with Plot 713 Dutse. Gaya was however found not guilty as the court held that the charge against him could not be substantiated without the Prosecution tendering all the title documents to the three plots.

Meanwhile, the 1st Claimant had signed series of documents including a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) dated 12th February, 2013; and a Deed of Assignment and Power of Attorney, both of which he signed as director of the 2nd Claimant. The documents effectively transferred ownership of the property in dispute, plot 713 Dutse, to the 2nd Defendant as replacement for the three Plots above that AGIS found to be unauthentic.

After the conclusion of the trial of Gaya, Okoli turned around to claim that he was forced by the EFCC to sign the documents of the property in dispute in favour of Dr Nwaneri.

Uche Okoli approached the court through his lawyer, Ikechukwu Ezechukwu, SAN, to seek the following reliefs:
“A declaration that the act of the 1st Defendant (EFCC) by releasing to the 2nd Defendant, the 2nd Claimant’s originalCertificate of Occupancy with certificate No. la7ew+601z543fr-12912-10 deposited as Bond by the 1st Claimant to secure hos bail pending the final investigation and the Court Judgment in the matter before Hon. Justice 0.0. Goodluck, in Charge No. FCT/HC/CR/683/2013 between Federal Republic of Nigeria v Aminu Ibrahim Gaya for the alleged offence of forgery reported by the 2nd Defendant against the 1st Claimant is illegal, unlawful and unjustifiable. “

The claimants prayed the court for an order mandating/compelling the 1st and 2nd Defendants, to retum to the 1st Claimant the original Certificate of Occupancy of Plot 713 Dutse District.

They also prayed the court for an order nullifying/setting aside any Power of Attorney, Deed of Assignment and/or agreement purportedly signed by the 1st Claimant on behalf of the 2nd Claimant, arguing that such signing is unauthorised amd was obtained under duress.

After full trial of the case and listening to submissions of Counsel in the matter, the court dismissed the claimants’ case and described their action as fraudulent.

The Court was particularly vexed by the conduct of Uche Okoli and his lawyers who continued building and selling lands in the disputed property while the case was pending, and despite the subsistence of Order of injunction granted by the Court in November 2018. The Hon. Chief Judge also berated the conduct of the Claimants’ counsel who joined parties in the Suit and represented them in Court without their consent. The Court further questioned the character and integrity of a lawyer and 3rd Claimant in the case, Mr. Hope Onyekwere, who testified in Court on behalf of parties that neither knew him nor authorized his testimony on their behalf.

Hon. Justice Hussein Baba Yusuf commended the industry of lawyers in the case and held, ” I appreciate the industry of Counsel in the case and particularly, Dr. Lilian Ojimma, for how gallantly she held her fort against the community of parties and intrigues that she had to contend with in the case.”

“In conclusion, the respective cases of the 1st, 2nd and 3rd sets of Claimants fail and are dismissed, the 2nd as well as the 3rd defendant’s respective counterclaims succeeds in the term already set out above, and the counterclaim by the 4th -7th defendants are struck out.

“A declaration is hereby made that the 1st claimant who held himself out as a property agent, estate developer and consultant owe the 2nd Defendant/Counter Clamant a duty of care in purchasing the three Plots of Lands on behalf of the 2nd Defendant/Counter Claimant which duty was breached by the 1st Claimant’s failure and or refusal to carry out any due diligence whatsoever on the status of the Plots before pay ment for them.

“A Declaration is hereby made that the act of the 1st Claimant, who held himself out as a property agent, estate developer and consultant, in purchasing three Plots of land for the 2nd Defendant/Counter Claimant without carrying out any due diligence whatsoever is negligent and/or fraudulent and for which the claimants are liable for the loss resulting therefrom.

“A Declaration is hereby made that the 2nd Defendant Counter Claimant is entitled to restitution for the three Plots of land which the 1st Claimant/Defendant to the Counter claim purchased for the 2nd Defendant/Counter Claimant without carrying out any due diligence whatsoever and which plots were declared forged by the Land Registry (i.e. Abuja Geographic Information System).

“A declaration is hereby made that the agreement duly executed between the Claimants/Defendants to the Counter Claim and the 2nd Defendant/Counter Claimant in 2013, which transferred title of Plot No. 713, Cadastral Zone B14, Dutse District, Abuja with File No. MISC 89161 and Certificate of
Occupancy No. 1a7ew-48012-5a3fr-12912-10 to the 2nd Defendant/Counter Claimant is valid and binding on the parties and has duly transferred title to the 2bd Defendant/Counterclaimant with respect to the said Plot.

“An Order of Court is hereby made mandating the Claimants/Defendants to the Counter Claim to vacate, forthwith, the property known as Plot No. 713, Cadastral Zone B14, Duste District, Abuja with file No. MISC 89161 covered by Certificate of Occupancy No. la7ew-4801z-Sa3fr-12912-10, which has been duly transferred to the 2nd Defendant/Counter Claimant as replacement for the three Plots purchased for him without due diligence.

“An order of Perpetual injunction is herehy made restarining the Claimants/Defendants to the Counter clain Whether by themselves, thelr agents, assigns or anybody claming any right howsoever known through them from entering, futher entering, occupying, building of continuing with building operations, trespassing or further trespassing or howsoever dealing or tampering with the property known as Plot No. 713, Cadastral Zone B14, Dutse District, Abuja with file No. MISC 89161 covered by Certificate of Occupancy No. la7cw-4801z-Sa3fr-12912-10, Dutse District, Abaja belonging to the 2nd Defendant/Counter Claimant.”

A Lagos-based prophet, Godwin Ikuru, has issued a public apology for defaming and cyberbullying Dr Paul Enenche, the Senior Pastor of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, and his wife, Dr Becky Enenche.

In a public apology published on a national daily, Ikuru expressed deep regret for his defamatory, abusive and hurtful comments directed at the couple, acknowledging that his words were not only misleading but also damaging and completely unacceptable.

Ikuru further admitted that his actions were fueled by malice, prejudice, and ignorance and that he violated the fundamental human rights of the Enenches, especially their right to personal dignity.

He acknowledged his ignorance of the law, noting that his actions amounted to cyberbullying, a crime punishable by imprisonment without an option of fine.

Ikuru reiterated that Dr Paul Enenche and his wife had never wronged him in any way and that the negative statements made in his videos were unfounded and untrue.

He commended the Enenches as respected servants of God and expressed deep regret for any distress or harm caused to them, their family, and their followers.

His apology reads below:
“I, Godwin Ikuru, wish to express my sincere apologies for my defamatory, abusive, and hurtful statements against Dr. Pastor Paul “Enenche and his dear wife, Dr. M. Becky Enenche. It has become clear to me that my words were not only misleading and fallacious, but also intense, hurtful, damaging, and completely unacceptable.

“I have also realized that my actions were motivated by malice, prejudice, hate, and ignorance. And being thus instigated by hate and bitterness, I acted in breach of their fundamental human rights, especially their right to personal dignity.

“I never knew that my actions amounted to cyberbullying, which is punishable with imprisonment without an option of fine, and this made me liable to imprisonment.

“A member of Dunamis International Gospel Centre invoked the provisions of this law, got me arrested, and charged me to court. Thus, I owe my freedom to the leniency of Dr. Pastor Paul Enenche and his wife for intervening in this case and tempering justice with mercy, as I acted in ignorance of the law.

“This should also serve as a deterrent to all those who engage in cyberbullying, especially against reputable and genuine men of God and fathers of faith in Nigeria, to desist from their nefarious acts or face the wrath of the law.

“I wish to reiterate the fact that Dr. Paul Enenche and his wife, Dr. Becky Enenche, never offended me in any way, and that any negative statement I made against them in those unfortunate videos is unfounded and untrue. They are reputable servants of God, and I hold them in high esteem.

“I had caused great embarrassment through my actions, and I beg them to please accept my most humble and sincere apologies. I have fully realized the consequences of my actions, and I am committed to making all necessary amends.”

The Nigeria Youths Frontiers and Peace Advocates (NYFPA) has condemned social media activist Reno Omokri for his recent comments about Nigerian clerics, particularly Pastor Becky Enenche of Dunamis International Gospel Centre.

Omokri recently referred to Pastor Enenche as a “Yahoo girl on the altar,” sparking outrage among members of the Christian community.

The NYFPA described Omokri’s remarks as “inflammatory, baseless, and deeply irresponsible,” adding that they were unbecoming of someone who presents himself as a political activist and public commentator.

In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Samuel Geofrey, the group said, “Reno Omokri’s statements are an affront to millions of Nigerians who revere their faith and spiritual leaders. His choice of words reflects a profound lack of respect for Christianity and the principles of dialogue and mutual understanding in a civilized society.”

The NYFPA further criticized Omokri’s controversial public record, pointing to alleged inconsistencies in his career, personal life, and political affiliations. It accused him of using divisive rhetoric to maintain relevance, often at the expense of unity and constructive discourse.

The group called on Omokri to issue an immediate and unequivocal apology to Pastor Becky Enenche and her family, warning that failure to do so would damage his already “fragile credibility.”

NYFPA reaffirmed its commitment to promoting truth, justice, and peace, urging Nigerians to reject divisive narratives and focus on building a society rooted in mutual respect and understanding.

The statement reads below.

“Omokri’s statements represent not only an attack on Pastor Becky Enenche but also an affront to the millions of Nigerians who hold their faith and spiritual leaders in high esteem.

“His choice of words betrays a profound lack of respect, not only for Christianity but for the principles of dialogue and mutual respect that underpin a civilized society.

“It is unfortunate that Omokri, who portrays himself as a moral and political compass, has a history marred by inconsistency, self-serving motives, and a penchant for stirring unnecessary controversies:

Despite his claims of being a man of God, details of Mr. Omokri’s life are riddled with contradictions.
“The lack of clarity about his early education, career trajectory, and personal affiliations suggests a deliberate effort to obscure the truth. How can one who thrives on ambiguity in his personal life claim to be a voice of clarity on spiritual and national matters?

“Omokri’s self-styled title as a “pastor” has raised many eyebrows. He established a church with no visible congregation or impact, a move many perceive as a branding strategy rather than a genuine spiritual calling.

Even the name of his supposed church was allegedly appropriated from an established ministry in Tennessee, further undermining his credibility.
“Over the years, Mr Omokri has demonstrated a concerning tendency to align himself with political figures for personal benefit. From being a mouthpiece for former President Goodluck Jonathan to his more recent affiliations with various political aspirants, his loyalty seems driven more by financial incentives than by principles.

“His infamous “Wendell Simlin” scandal, where he allegedly fabricated links between prominent figures and Boko Haram, epitomizes his readiness to use falsehoods for political ends.

“While often vocal about morality and relationships, Mr. Omokri’s personal life tells a different story. Reports of abandoning his wife and children in the United States, followed by his involvement with another woman, starkly contradict the values he preaches. His actions not only expose hypocrisy but also call into question his moral authority to criticize others.
“Omokri has consistently exploited societal divisions, including making divisive comments about ethnic groups and attacking various political figures to provoke outrage and maintain relevance.
“His most recent attack on Pastor Becky Enenche crosses a red line, exposing his lack of restraint and disregard for constructive discourse.
We call on Mr. Omokri to reflect on his actions and consider the harm his words inflict on individuals and the broader society.

“Instead of spreading misinformation and engaging in character assassination, he should focus on using his platform to foster unity, constructive dialogue, and national development.

“We demand an immediate and unequivocal apology to Pastor Becky Enenche and her family. Failure to do so will only further erode his already fragile credibility and expose him as a divisive figure unworthy of the respect he seeks.

“The Nigeria Youths Frontiers and Peace Advocates remain resolute in our mission to uphold truth, justice, and peace. We urge all Nigerians to reject voices of division and focus on building a nation where respect and understanding prevail over baseless accusations and personal vendettas.”

…pass Vote of Confidence on MD and management

The Coalition of Civil Societies in Benue State (COSCIB) has identified with the transformational strides in the administration of Benue State under His Excellency Fr Dr Hyacinth Alia. The Coalition in a statement signed by it’s convener Solomon noted that the BIPC under the management of Dr Raymond Asemakaha has within a short time in office demonstrated beyond doubt the commitment of the Alia led administration to actualize economic independence of the state.

“In terms of policy reforms, transparency and accountability, the coalition acknowledged that BIPC has set an example of good leadership which is the hallmark of the governor Hycinth Alia administration. Under your leadership, the BIPC has transformed into a company that is committed to it’s founding vision as well as economic goals” this is highly recommended.

The Coalition added that it had undertaken an independent tour of the projects been implemented by the current BIPC management across the metropolitan city and beyond. “What we can say as an independent group is that the BIPC has no doubt moved away from redundancy to productivity which has led to multiple empowerment for the people of Benue State.”

“Beyond the employment opportunities created by the BIPC through the establishment of bakeries and water factories, the innovation has boosted the state economy and improved food security of our people” The Coalition also commended the fertilizer plant initiative which would bring fertilizer closer and cheaper to Benue people.

“It is noteworthy to mention that during the short time in office, the BIPC has also partnered with small and medium scale bussinesses through various empowerment opportunities. The company has diversified most of it’s non productive investment to reinvest in more viable ideas ” this is what led to the fertilizer,bakery , brewery and water factories in the state to serve as a springboard for more economic activities. Our investigations reveal that there are many other people interventions aimed at improving living conditions and business environment.

“We are delighted by the prudence and transparency deployed in the administration of BIPC hence the need for the commendations.
The Coalition also unanimously passed a vote of confidence on the BIPC management and urged them to continue in that direction so as justify the confidence of his Excellency Governor Hyacinth who is poised to bring development to the state.

…. inspect permanent site construction..

….passes Vote of Confidence on RAAMP Management

The Center for Agricultural Advancement and Rural Societies (CAARS) has commended the Benue State Goverment for it’s commitment to the goals and objectives of RAAMP under the Engr Stephen Numbeve led management. In a statement released on Saturday by the group coordinator, Dr Sunday Abah maintained that after a tour of the RAAMP permanent site under construction, it is convinced that the Alia led administration is totally committed to improving the living conditions of the people using all platforms of goverment amidst scarce resources.

The group acknowledged the passion of the governor in utilizing both local and international partnerships for development which he has demonstrated in the regular payment of counterpart funding and other support funds for agencies in the state such as RAAMP. “Indeed, by our own independent assessment, it is glaring that the Benue State RAAMP under the current management of Engr Stephen Numbeve is poised to deliver on her mandate. The group also appreciated the governor for his special head hunting capacity in search for the best hands in all sectors. A feat that has revived the welfare and economy of the state within a short time.

Commenting on the pace of infrastructure under RAAM , the group highlighted the ongoing construction of a permanent site for RAAMP as a litmus test that Engr Stephen Numbeve is equal to the task , all of which justified the confidence of the governor in his appointment to the important role” We call on all to support the agency to consolidate on it’s goals which is the improvement of life through Agriculture and critical rural intervention programs.

The group emphasized the need for citizens to take advantage of the opportunities coordinated by RAAMP to improve there welfare and living conditions. “As far as the evidence on ground show, Engr Stephen Numbeve has demonstrated beyond doubt that people will be made to have value for confidence in the Administration of governor Hycinth Alia, calling for support among all to achieve the objectives.

The group passed a resounding vote of confidence on the Benue State RAAMP insisting that the honor was challenge and call for more of the good work.

…Pass Vote of Confidence on Dr Mathias Ibuan

The Conference of Minority Tribes and Ethic Nationalities in Benue ( COMTENB) has commended His Excellency president Bola Ahmed Tinubu over some strategic appointments made so far from Benue state in advancing the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President.

The group in a press statement issued in Friday in Makurdi the state capital and signed by Dr Oduma Richard particularly thanked, Sen George Akume, the secretary to the federal government for his wisdom in headhunting for the best hands from the state to support Mr President who has trusted him with high responsibility as SGF. Dr Oduma noted that the appointment of Dr Mathias Ibuan as the executive director, Finance and Administration of the Federal Housing Authority which is a key agency by the president is a demonstration of his love for Benue people.

“We are even more proud that Dr Mathias Ibuan has lived beyond expectations since assuming the noble role as assigned by the president” this is worthy of commendation.
Dr Mathias Ibuan has so far demonstrated unflinching loyalty to the party, and unparalleled commitment to the vision of Mr President. “The executive director’s approach to the welfare of the people from across divides and his deep generosity has indeed restored hope to the ordinary people ”

The group further acknowledged the developmental strides of Dr Ibuan in his capacity as the Executive Director, Finance and Administration as he was poised to attract development to the people of the state through his multiple interventions in the state through individuals, churches and political associations.

“We particularly thank Mr President for the housing projects currently attracted to the state in view of the housing deficit in Benue ” Even as we are proud of Dr Mathias Ibuan, our appreciation goes to Send Dr George Akume who has recommended to Mr President our very best sons”

As a group of minorities in the state, we are committed to support you to deliver on your role so as to justify the confidence of Mr President and the party in your capacity to serve in future even in higher capacity. ” The group passed a resounding vote of confidence in the performance of Dr Mathias Ibuan and urged the people of Benue to rally round to support the administration of president Tinubu for greater gains to the people.