BY JOHN AUDU.
Former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, has approached the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court to appeal a decision that may see him lose ownership of a prime landed property in the Maitama district of Abuja. The appeal was submitted before Justice Maryann Anenih, urging the court to reconsider its position on the matter.
The disputed property, located in one of Abuja’s most prestigious neighborhoods, has been at the center of a legal tussle involving the former governor and other parties. Bello’s legal counsel argues that the decision to strip him of the property was not supported by adequate evidence and calls for a review of the court’s judgment.
In his submission, Bello pleaded with the court to “exercise fairness and impartiality,” emphasizing that he lawfully acquired the property and has complied with all legal and procedural requirements regarding its ownership.
“This property is a significant investment, and I respectfully appeal to the court to carefully reexamine the evidence presented,” Bello stated through his legal representatives.
According to The Sun, The case has drawn public interest due to the high-profile nature of the parties involved and the prime location of the disputed property. Maitama, a central district in Abuja, is home to some of the nation’s most influential figures and properties valued in billions of naira.
Legal analysts note that cases involving landed property in Abuja often hinge on issues of rightful ownership, compliance with acquisition processes, and land allocation regulations. In Bello’s case, the former governor’s legal team maintains that he has fulfilled all statutory obligations related to the property and that the ruling against him was unjust.
The opposing party, however, insists that the property was wrongfully acquired and has urged the court to uphold its initial decision to revoke the ownership.
As the legal proceedings continue, Justice Maryann Anenih is expected to consider both parties’ arguments before delivering a final ruling. The case highlights the complexities of land disputes in Nigeria’s capital and underscores the importance of transparency in property ownership and allocation.
