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LAGOS STATE, Nigeria - Following an alleged breach of the rule of law by officials of the Federal Housing Authority, FHA, residents of Festac Town in Lagos State have petitioned the Inspector General of Police, IGP, Kayode Egbetokun.
The petition was sent through their lawyer, Mr Adetayo Bello on Monday.
According to the petition, the residents alleged that the FHA has continued to demolish properties in Festac Extension 6th Avenue despite a valid court injunction restraining further demolitions.
The petition specifically names the Zonal Manager of the FHA, Akintola Olagbenro, alongside two individuals, Chief Chuka Umenne and Coach Sesi, as being complicit in these actions.
Recall that a Lagos State High Court sitting in Ikeja had on September 11, 2023, granted the restraining order against the FHA in favour of the Festac residents through the trial judge, Justice O. Awope.
The injunction restrained the FHA and its agents from demolishing buildings in Festac Town’s 6th Avenue or other areas pending the determination of the substantive suit, No: ID/7397GCM/2023.
The petition reads: “This act not only represents a contempt of court but also a criminal abuse of power that can endanger public peace.”
The residents are calling for urgent action by the Nigeria Police Force to investigate the FHA Zonal Manager and his associates for contempt of court.
They also demand measures to prevent further illegal demolitions and ensure the protection of their rights and properties.
