The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Maitama has adjourned the arraignment of property developer Cecil Osakwe and two co-defendants to March 3 over an alleged illegal eviction involving properties valued at around ₦300 million.
Justice Samira Bature made the ruling on Tuesday after proceedings could not continue at the previous sitting due to her absence, which was attributed to ill-health. The defendants in case FCT/HS/CR/222/2023 are Osakwe, Victor Giwa, and Edith Erhunmuuse, who are accused of forcefully evicting occupants and destroying property worth millions of naira.
The case has experienced multiple delays. One adjournment was granted to allow the third defendant, Ms. Erhunmuuse, to secure legal representation. Although she now has counsel, her absence at Tuesday’s hearing was again explained by ill-health, without submission of a medical report.
Earlier, the prosecution sought an adjournment, noting that the lawyer handling the matter was on official duty outside the country. Counsel to Osakwe, Mr. Ayuba Kawu, and Giwa, who appeared for himself, opposed the request. Kawu stated that his client had traveled from the United States specifically for the hearing but could not provide proof of the trip. He further urged the court to strike out the case for lack of diligent prosecution, describing its handling as “unserious.”
Justice Bature rejected the request, noting that most previous delays were at the instance of the defence. She overruled objections, emphasizing that the prosecution deserved the benefit of the doubt. The judge also confirmed that pending applications challenging the court’s jurisdiction would be addressed when the prosecution is present to respond.
“In the interest of justice, both parties must be given the opportunity to be heard,” Justice Bature stated. She further directed that the third defendant appear in court on the next adjourned date and that the prosecution be properly served ahead of the March 3 hearing.
The case continues to attract attention due to the high value of the properties involved and allegations of forceful eviction, highlighting ongoing concerns over property rights enforcement in Abuja.
