The Kuje Amuwo Chieftaincy Family has submitted a petition to the President of Nigeria through his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, alleging significant abuse of power, contempt of court, and unlawful actions by the Federal Housing Authority (FHA) and the Nigeria Police Force.
The petition, signed by representatives O.M. Osobase and Comrade Akpan S. Mark, outlines a prolonged legal struggle over a large tract of land located at 6th and 7th Avenue in Festac Town, Lagos.
The family, represented by the Oba-in-Council and supported by their legal advisors, contends that a portion of the land in question was acquired by the Federal Government in 1976 for the FESTAC ’77 festival.
However, after the festival concluded, a significant section of the unused land, which legally belongs to the Kuje Amuwo family, was allegedly encroached upon by FHA officials and private individuals engaged in illegal sales.
The family also accuses the FHA of disregarding a restraining order issued by the Lagos State High Court in September 2023.
The petition claims that FHA officials, led by Architect Akintola Olagbenro, along with others, orchestrated demolitions of properties on the disputed land.
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These actions were reportedly carried out with the support of armed police detachments sourced from the Inspector General of Police’s office.
Residents of 6th-7th Avenue have reported incidents of sporadic gunfire, intimidation, and the destruction of homes and farmland.
The petition characterizes these actions as acts of “terrorism” aimed at dispossessing the rightful landowners and their tenants.
According to the petition, the land has been the subject of extensive litigation. It alleges that despite the ongoing legal process, FHA officials continue to demolish properties and intimidate residents, undermining the judicial system.
The Kuje Amuwo Chieftaincy Family calls on the President to immediately halt further demolitions and to respect court rulings.
They request an independent investigation into the FHA’s actions and the alleged involvement of police officers, urging accountability for those responsible for these violations.
The family emphasizes the need for the government to uphold the rule of law, preserve the integrity of the judiciary, and ensure justice for the affected residents.
