Judicial Warning to Real Estate Developers in Abuja
Justice Yusuf Khalil of the Federal Capital Territory High Court has issued a stern warning to real estate developers in Abuja regarding compliance with court orders. The justice emphasized that the court will not tolerate any defiance of its authority or attempts at self-redress in ongoing legal matters.
Court Rulings Under Scrutiny
During a hearing concerning the ownership of land identified as Plot 1729, Cadastral Zone F27, Apo, Abuja, Justice Khalil addressed the gravity of the situation. The case has been brought forth by AMAC Investment Property Development Company, Commercial Properties Limited, and Manila Integrated Partners against Dr. Shuaib Omeiza Musari and Tex & Concrete Limited, who are contending for rightful ownership of the contested land.
Allegations of Non-Compliance
On Thursday, the court heard arguments from the first defendant’s legal representative, Mr. Rialwan Okpanachi. He highlighted an interim injunction issued on April 15, 2025, which clearly prohibits any parties from entering the property until the ownership dispute is resolved. Okpanachi alleged that AMAC Investment and Real Estate Development Company had violated this injunction by resuming construction work on the site, with several buildings reportedly reaching the roofing stage against the court’s directive to maintain the status quo.
Concerns for Public Safety
The attorney voiced alarm over the actions of AMAC Investment, framing them as a potential threat to public safety. He recounted advising his client to remain peaceful and compliant in light of perceived provocations, yet also requested that the court consider a site visit to assess the situation firsthand and impose appropriate penalties for contempt of court.
Pursuing Legal Recourse
Okpanachi also mentioned that efforts are underway to file contempt charges against the plaintiffs, potentially leading to imprisonment for the parties involved, as prescribed by law. This revelation prompted Justice Khalil to ask for a response from the plaintiff’s counsel, Mr. Idris Abubakar (SAN).
Counter-Claims from the Plaintiff
In his defense, Abubakar accused Dr. Shuaib Omeiza Musari of entering the property with media members and unknown individuals, allegedly marking structures for destruction—an act he claimed was averted only by police intervention. Although Abubakar didn’t outright deny the accusations, he noted an appeal has already been initiated at the Court of Appeal regarding the ownership issue.
The Importance of Court Authority
Justice Khalil reiterated the importance of respecting court orders, which remain valid until formally revoked. He stressed that judicial authority must be upheld to maintain societal order and urged all involved parties to adhere to the legal process. “Ownership disputes should be settled through the courts, not through personal intervention,” he stated emphatically. “Any actions undermining the court’s authority will be met with swift legal consequences.”
Looking ahead, the court has scheduled June 1, 2026, for the first defendant to formally file their claim regarding ownership of the disputed land.
