Lawyer Sues Nigeria’s IGP for Alleged Court Order Violation in Abuja Property Dispute
An Abuja-based lawyer, Yahuza Maharaz, has initiated contempt proceedings against Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, Alhaji Isah Yusuf-Musa, Hill Crest Estate Management Development, and the Nigeria Police Force for allegedly disregarding a court order.
The legal action stems from a dispute over a lease agreement involving Pamodi Pharmacy at Hillcrest Shopping Complex, Lokogoma, Abuja.
On June 25, 2025, Justice Mohammed Madugu of the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Bwari issued an ex parte order in suit HC/BW/CV/199/2025, directing all parties to maintain the status quo regarding an office space measuring 160 square meters at Hillcrest Shopping Complex, Plot No. 102, Cadastral Zone C09, Ahmadu Bello Way, Lokogoma, Abuja.
The court’s ruling, delivered after reviewing the motion (FCT/HC/M/8303/2025) and affidavit by Pharm. Abugi Abdulkadir Mohammed, stated: “Upon reading the Motion Exparte along with the accompanying affidavit of PHARM. ABUGI ABDULKADIR MOHAMMED, including the written address and the Exhibits filed along with the application.
And upon hearing YAHUZA MAHARAZ Esq., counsel to the Claimants/Applicants, Court hereby makes the following order[s]: The parties herein shall maintain the status quo in respect of the subject matter of this suit i.e. an office space measured at 160 square metres, situated at Hill Crest shopping complex/mall, lying and situated at Plot No. 102. Cadastral Zone C09. Ahmadu Bello Way. Lokogoma, Abuja FCT. This order shall be pasted on the main entrance gate and or walls of Hill Crest shopping Complex/Mall.”
The case was adjourned to October 22, 2025. However, Maharaz alleges that the defendants violated the order by disconnecting water and electricity to Pamodi Pharmacy on Yusuf-Musa’s instructions and removing the court order posted on the plaza’s walls.
Additionally, the police invited the pharmacy’s managing director for questioning, which Maharaz calls a “clear act of contempt.” A text message from Detective Ibrahim at Zone 7 Police Headquarters, Wuse Zone 3, FCT, read:
“I’m Detective Ibrahim from Zone 7 Police Headquarters, Wuse Zone 3, FCT. As a matter of utmost importance, the Assistant Inspector General Zone 7 Police Headquarters directs you to avail yourself for an interview with the AIG through the O/C Surveillance on Friday, 11/7/2025, at 10:00 hours unfailingly in respect of a petition written to the AIG. Treat with utmost importance. Accept the regards of the AIG, please.”
On July 8, 2025, a Notice of Consequences of Disobedience was filed, warning the defendants to comply or face contempt charges.
The notice demands immediate restoration of water and electricity and an end to police harassment of the claimant. Copies were sent to the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), and the Department of State Security Service (DSS).
Maharaz emphasized that the matter is a civil case, urging the police to refrain from interfering in issues outside their jurisdiction. This case highlights ongoing concerns about judicial compliance and police conduct in Nigeria’s property disputes.
