A Lagos State High Court has been approached by the Administrator of the Estate of the late Mrs. Esther Ibeto, seeking redress over allegations of unlawful possession of the deceased’s property by Jigida singer, Uche Ibeto. The lawsuit, filed through Counsel Barrister E. Omoijiade on October 2, 2025, claims that Uche has taken possession of cash, valuables, property title documents, and rental income belonging to the Estate without authorization.
Uche Ibeto, known for her popular hit album “Jigida dance” in the 80s, is accused of sponsoring defamatory publications in the media against members of the family, including a publication dated September 9, 2025. The family alleges that Uche has converted rental income of over N25 million to her personal use, despite repeated requests to account for the funds. The Administrator, Mrs. Laura Chinyelu Okoh, is seeking a court order for Uche to return all assets belonging to the Estate, provide a full account of the Estate’s finances, and publish a retraction and apology for the defamatory statements.
The lawsuit also seeks monetary compensation of N10 million for defamation and N10 million for the cost of the legal action. Additionally, the Administrator is seeking an order for Uche to account for £10,000 allegedly withdrawn from the deceased’s Barclays Bank account and a perpetual injunction restraining her from interfering with the Estate or publishing further defamatory statements. The claimant has stated that the defendant’s actions have lowered her reputation and brought the administration of the Estate into disrepute.
The lawsuit comes after Uche allegedly rented out various portions of the deceased’s property without lawful authority and failed to provide an account for the rental income. The Administrator has asked the court to sell the house, situated at No. 36 Ibezim Obiojulu Street, Surulere, Lagos, to protect and preserve the interests of all beneficiaries. As of the time of filing, Uche has refused service of the court papers at her residence.
The case is pending, with no date fixed for the hearing. The outcome of the lawsuit will determine the fate of the Estate’s assets and the resolution of the disputes between the parties involved. The allegations against Uche Ibeto highlight the importance of proper administration of estates and the need for beneficiaries to adhere to the law in matters related to inheritance and property management.