EFCC Accused of Defying Court Order, Invades Abuja Land Despite Ruling
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) reportedly forced its way onto a disputed piece of land in Mabushi, Abuja, just days after a high‑court ruling barred the agency from interfering in the matter.
Video footage obtained by Sahara Reporters shows EFCC operatives entering the site, with one seen carrying mattresses into the property as if preparing to stay there.
Court’s Previous Decision
On November 11, 2025, the FCT High Court presided over by Modupe Osho‑Adebiyi dismissed the criminal charges against Jona Brothers Construction Ltd and its director over the ownership of plots 680–689, Cadastral Zone B06, Mabushi. The court described the EFCC’s earlier action as a “gross abuse of statutory powers” and “malicious, vexatious, and oppressive.”
As part of the judgment, the court imposed a punitive cost of ₦20 million on the EFCC and issued an injunction restraining the commission from further investigation, prosecution, or occupation of the property while a prior judgment recognizing Jona Brothers’ ownership remains valid.
EFCC’s Return to the Property
Despite the clear court order issued on November 28, 2025, EFCC operatives, along with armed policemen reportedly connected to a complainant in the case, allegedly stormed the property the following day. They broke into a makeshift building on the land, removed documents and building material, and moved in mattresses, staying on-site until December 1, 2025.
Lawyers for Jona Brothers have condemned the intrusion as deliberate defiance of multiple court rulings and a blatant undermining of judicial authority. To date, four judges, including Justice Osho‑Adebiyi, have ruled on the matter, all in favor of the company.
Implications, Reaction
Critics argue that the EFCC’s actions amount to “taking laws into its own hands,” undermining the rule of law and setting a dangerous precedent. A source close to the case told Sahara Reporters: “Even if the EFCC disagrees with the judgment, the proper remedy is an appeal, not grabbing the land by force.”
With contempt proceedings already underway against EFCC leadership in connection with the matter, the latest invasion is likely to intensify calls for stricter enforcement of court orders and greater accountability for the anti‑graft agency.