Rights Activist Mahmud Advocates for Dialogue in Fatima Gold Estate Dispute
An Abuja-based lawyer and rights activist, Dr. Abdul Mahmud, has issued a call for calm and constructive dialogue in the ongoing dispute involving the Residents Association of Fatima Gold Estate in Mararaba, Nasarawa State. The conflict, which has persisted for nearly two years, centers on disagreements over the payment of estate dues and the authority of the residents' association to enforce compliance measures within the community.
Escalation of Tensions and Legal Actions
The situation intensified when some residents, including Deputy Commissioner of Police Amabua Muhammed, were alleged to have defaulted on agreed levies. This prompted enforcement actions by the association, such as the disconnection of electricity supply to affected properties. The dispute took a dramatic turn on May 27, 2023, when Mahmud was arrested after reportedly preventing DCP Muhammed from arresting a security officer within the estate without a warrant.
This incident followed the service of a demand notice on the police officer over unpaid dues, which reportedly triggered the confrontation. Mahmud's arrest drew swift reactions from members of the legal community and rights advocates, who condemned the action as an abuse of power. The then Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, subsequently ordered his release through his Principal Staff Officer, Tunji Bello.
Legal Proceedings and Recent Developments
Despite his release, the matter degenerated into what observers described as a personal standoff between the parties. The dispute later led to the prosecution of Mahmud and the former chairman of the residents' association, Emmanuel Ejeh, at a Senior Magistrate Court in Mararaba. It also culminated in Mahmud's recent detention for several days, further attracting criticism from legal practitioners and civil society groups.
In a statement issued on Monday, Mahmud revealed that efforts are underway to resolve the matter amicably, stressing the need for restraint and constructive engagement by all parties. He emphasized that the enforcement measures taken by the association, including disconnection of electricity to defaulting properties, were intended to promote cooperation and orderly development within the estate, not to cause harm or distress.
Path to Resolution and Media Appeal
Mahmud acknowledged that the process has caused significant inconvenience and expressed regret over the grievances and media reports surrounding the dispute. He further revealed that all previous publications on the matter have been retracted, urging stakeholders and the media to support ongoing peace efforts by halting further dissemination of related content.
The latest development signals a possible de-escalation of tensions, as stakeholders explore non-confrontational avenues to resolve the dispute that has polarized residents and attracted wider public attention. This case highlights the complexities of community governance and the importance of legal frameworks in managing estate affairs.
