Abuja, Nigeria – Justice Suleiman Belgore of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, has issued a bench warrant for the arrest of the Director of Investigation and Prosecution of the Nyesom Wike-led Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), Joseph Eriki, along with 10 others involved in an alleged land fraud scandal.
TJ News Nigeria gathered that the arrest order was issued following an application by David Kaswe, the prosecuting counsel representing the Federal Government, who lamented the repeated failure of the defendants to appear in court despite multiple notifications and summons.
Grounds for Arrest
The defendants are to face arraignment over a six-count charge which includes:
- Criminal conspiracy
- Criminal trespass
- Forgery
- Using forged documents as genuine
- Criminal force to deter a public servant from duty
- Fraudulent acquisition and misrepresentation of land ownership
Kaswe informed the court that the suspects had deliberately evaded court appearances despite the prosecution’s efforts, which included notifying their legal representatives and sureties. Citing Section 124 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), Kaswe urged the court to issue a bench warrant to compel their attendance.
Land Dispute at the Center of the Case
The case revolves around a disputed plot of land allegedly owned by Etha Ventures, where the suspects are accused of erecting structures without any legal authorisation. According to the prosecution, the suspects colluded to fraudulently obtain a consent judgment that transferred the ownership of the land to Super Structures Limited, an entity linked to the defendants.
The forged documents, allegedly presented as genuine, enabled the unlawful possession and development of the land, resulting in significant financial loss to Etha Ventures.
Seriousness of Allegations
TJ News Nigeria learned that Justice Belgore’s issuance of a bench warrant underlines the gravity of the allegations and signals a stern judicial response to acts of impunity and abuse of office. The court emphasised the urgency of bringing the suspects to trial, as the matter involves abuse of public trust and official capacity.
The suspects, whose names were not fully disclosed at the time of the court session, are believed to be current or former officials connected to the FCTA, and possibly affiliated with the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) and Abuja Geographic Information Systems (AGIS).
Next Court Session Set
The case has been adjourned until June 4, 2025, for arraignment. The court expects all defendants to appear for formal reading of charges and commencement of proceedings.
Should the defendants continue to evade court, law enforcement agencies are now authorised to effect their arrest immediately and present them before the court on the adjourned date.
Implications for the Wike-Led FCTA
While there is no direct allegation implicating Minister Nyesom Wike in the matter, the fact that a top official of his administration is involved in such a high-profile case may raise questions about internal oversight and anti-corruption safeguards within the FCTA.
Observers say the case could test the administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability, particularly at a time when issues of land administration in the FCT have come under public scrutiny.
Summary of Key Developments
- Bench warrant issued for Joseph Eriki and 10 others
- Allegations involve forgery, conspiracy, trespass, and fraud
- Accused fraudulently acquired consent judgment to claim land
- Adjourned court date: June 4, 2025
- Case underscores judicial effort to curb abuse of office and enforce due process
TJ News Nigeria will continue to monitor the developments of this case and provide timely updates as events unfold.
Additional Reporting: Omajemite Do
