A Lagos property dispute has taken a new turn as a civic organization, Africa Centre for Good Governance and Corruption Free Communities, accuses the plaintiff, Mr. Henry Ugonna Orabuchi, of spreading false information about the case. The dispute is the subject of a lawsuit, FCT/HC/CV/4636/2025, between Orabuchi and the Nigeria Police Force, among others.
According to the civic group, a statement issued by Orabuchi on January 5, 2026, incorrectly attributed a court order to the Federal High Court, Abuja, when in fact it was issued by the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory. The order in question led to the sealing of a property in Lekki, Lagos. The group’s convener, Comrade Temitope Olubunmi Joseph, emphasized that the FCT High Court lacks jurisdiction over land matters in Lagos State.
The civic organization had previously called for an investigation into the judge who issued the order, arguing that it was an overreach of authority. The group maintains that only a Lagos court has the power to issue such an order, as the FCT High Court’s jurisdiction is limited to matters within the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
The case revolves around Orabuchi’s claim to a property in Lagos, with the plaintiff seeking to enforce his fundamental rights. However, the Africa Centre for Good Governance and Corruption Free Communities is urging Orabuchi to desist from distorting facts and misleading the public. The group is also reiterating its call for the National Judicial Council to probe the court order, citing the FCT High Court’s lack of jurisdiction over land disputes in Lagos State.
The Land Use Act and the Constitution grant exclusive original jurisdiction to state high courts to hear and determine land disputes within their territorial boundaries. The FCT High Court, equivalent to a state high court, is limited to matters and properties within the Federal Capital Territory. Therefore, any lawsuit concerning land in Lagos must be instituted in the High Court of Lagos State.
The civic organization is demanding a probe into the activities of the FCT High Court judge, stating that the judge clearly lacked the jurisdiction to issue an exparte order to seal a property in Lagos. The group’s concerns highlight the need for adherence to jurisdictional boundaries in legal proceedings, ensuring that justice is served in a fair and transparent manner.
