The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has raised alarm over what it describes as a disturbing case of land fraud and obstruction of justice in the Federal Capital Territory, urging immediate action from law enforcement authorities.

In a strongly worded statement, CHRICED expressed concern over the alleged illegal occupation of Plot 4022 in the Guzape District by one highly placed businesswoman.

The group alleged that despite multiple investigative reports from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), and the Department of Development Control linking the woman to forgery and land fraud, she has remained shielded from arrest by armed police officers.

At the centre of the dispute is another 79-year-old widow, Madam Collen Mero Yesufu, who claims rightful ownership of the plot.

CHRICED said Yesufu’s attempts to seek redress through the courts have been repeatedly obstructed, allegedly with the tacit support of police authorities.

The organisation specifically called out the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, accusing him of failing to act on existing court orders and instead providing illegal police protection to the suspect.

CHRICED cited several provisions of Nigerian law, including Sections 126 and 518 of the Criminal Code and Sections 97 and 104 of the Penal Code, which criminalise obstruction of justice and abuse of office.

“This situation bears disturbing similarities to the case involving former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, where security operatives were reportedly used to frustrate an EFCC arrest,” said Dr. Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi, the Executive Director of CHRICED.

“We must not allow our justice system to be held hostage by impunity.”

CHRICED is demanding the immediate withdrawal of police officers from the disputed plot and full compliance with court orders.

The organisation also called for a broader investigation into the role of the police in the matter by the National Assembly, Police Service Commission, and the Code of Conduct Bureau.

It urged the EFCC to remain resolute in its mandate and resist any form of intimidation.

In its final appeal, CHRICED called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene, warning that continued inaction would further erode public confidence in the rule of law.

“Justice must not only be done but it must also be seen to be done,” Zikirullahi stated.