Group demands independent probe in property dispute

A human rights organisation, the Initiative Against Human Rights Abuse and Torture (INAHURAT), has raised the alarm over the police role in a property dispute involving a 79-year-old woman.

The group called for immediate police withdrawal for an independent investigation into the matter.

INAHURAT in a press briefing, called on President Bola Tinubu to order an independent investigation into the alleged police interference.

The group through its legal representative, Chief Maxwell Opara vowed to resist any attempt to suppress the rights of vulnerable citizens, insisting that the case must be handled transparently.

“We refuse to stand by while the rights of innocent citizens, especially vulnerable individuals like a 79-year-old grandmother, are trampled upon by those entrusted with upholding the law.”

“The case, which involves one Rebecca Isaac, also known as Bilikisu Ishaku Aliyu, and Homadil Realty Limited, has been under investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

“At the heart of the case is Mrs Collen Mero Yesufu, an elderly woman who claims to be the rightful owner of the disputed properties,” the group said.

INAHURAT contended that despite compelling evidence, law enforcement agencies have failed to ensure justice for her.

“We are deeply concerned about the role of the police in the investigations. Instead of allowing the EFCC to continue with its work, the police have taken steps that appear to shield the accused from accountability,” said Chief Opara.

According to INAHURAT, the EFCC had conducted a thorough investigation and obtained a court order directing the suspect to show cause why the properties should not be forfeited.

However, the group alleges that the police, rather than supporting this process, filed separate charges against the suspect.

The controversy deepened after the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, issued a statement on December 30, 2024, dismissing the allegations of police interference as “mischief.”

The rights group, however, rejected this claim, insisting there is credible evidence of obstruction.

The group alleged that following their press briefing on January 8, 2025, the police allegedly rushed to file criminal charges against the suspect without notifying the complainants.

“This is not about due process; it is about manipulating the system to protect certain interests,” Opara alleged.

INAHURAT, therefore, urged the President, the National Assembly, and the judiciary to intervene.

The group is also demanding an independent investigation into the role of the police in the case.

It also demanded the IGP’s immediate withdrawal from the matter to allow the EFCC to continue its work.

Recall that the Nigerian police had in a statement warned mischief makers from dragging the name of IGP into land matters.

The police had in the statement declared: “The NPF’s role is primarily to maintain law and order and ensure public safety.

“The police only intervene in disputes when there are clear criminal elements involved.

“Similarly, the assertion that the police are at odds with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is unfounded, laughable, and without merit.

“The NPF maintains a cooperative and professional relationship with the EFCC, and there are no conflicts between the two agencies on this extant case or any other matter whatsoever.

“Any suggestion to the contrary is a blatant attempt to mislead the public and create unnecessary tension between both agencies.

“It is also vital to make it clear that if the parties involved in the dispute in question feel aggrieved and require the intervention of the IGP, there are proper channels to follow.

“Instead of resorting to media blackmail and attempting to malign the IGP’s reputation or ridiculing the Police institution, the concerned parties should make official contact through the appropriate channels.

“The NPF is always open to addressing legitimate concerns and providing assistance where necessary, provided the correct procedures are followed.”

The Police, therefore, urged the public to disregard unfounded claims and continue to seek intervention from the police on issues capable of triggering crisis and violence, as it is committed to promoting peace, unity and progress in the country.