A Federal High Court in Abuja has issued a significant ruling against the Nigerian Police Force, prohibiting them from interfering with properties belonging to Drawcok Estates LTD in both Lagos and Abuja.
Court Order Details
In a judgment delivered on November 24, 2025, Honourable Justice R.N. Ofili Ajumogobia ruled that the Nigerian Police Force and Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, must vacate and cease all interference with Drawcok Estates' properties. The case, identified as suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/2385/2025, was initiated by Drawcok Estates through their legal team led by Senior Advocates of Nigeria Mr. Kehinde Ogunwumiju and Ademola Abimbola, alongside Esther Longe and Uchechi Chibueze.
Properties Protected by the Ruling
The court specifically protected two key properties: No. 4 Nyasa Close, Plot 19, Off Ontario Crescent/Mississippi Road, Maitama, Abuja and No. 41/42 Akin Ademola Street, Victoria Island, Lagos State. The latter currently houses the Nestoil Group headquarters. Justice Ajumogobia declared that the police's sealing and occupation of these properties constituted a clear violation of the applicant's constitutional rights to property ownership as guaranteed by Sections 43 and 44 of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria and the African Charter on Human and People's Rights.
Judicial Directives and Implications
The judge issued several mandatory orders, including that the respondents must vacate the properties immediately and deliver possession to Drawcok Estates. Furthermore, the police are required to provide security to enable the applicant to retake possession of their properties. The court also permanently restrained the police, their agents, and servants from harassing the applicant or denying access to the mentioned properties. This ruling reinforces the judiciary's role in protecting citizens' fundamental rights against state power overreach.
