Police Confirm Abuja Estate Ownership After Fraud Probe

Police have concluded an investigation into alleged corporate fraud surrounding River Park Estate in Lugbe, Abuja, confirming Paul Odili as the legitimate owner and stating that suspects will face prosecution.

The investigation implicated three Ghanaians – Samuel Jonah, Kojo Ansah, and Victor Quainoo – alongside Nigerian Abu Arome. Force Public Relations Officer ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi announced the suspects will be prosecuted for charges including corporate fraud, forgery, criminal conspiracy, breach of trust, impersonation, criminal trespass, and attempted obstruction of justice.

“The legitimate ownership of Houses for Africa Nigeria Limited and its subsidiary rights in River Park Estate remains with Paulo Homes Limited under the leadership of Mr. Paul Odili,” Adejobi stated. He clarified that Odili “lawfully acquired eight million shares through a valid and fully executed agreement with the original co-owners, Dr. Adrian Ogunmuyiwa and Mr. Jones Johnson.”

Reacting to the police findings, estate owner Paul Odili described the process as “frustrating.” He told THE WHISTLER he had maintained cordial relations with the accused for over 12 years. Odili stated he first learned of the illegal ownership claim through a newspaper publication.

“I own over 80 per cent of every property at River Park Estate,” Odili asserted. “I did the infrastructure, and we were all living well. I’m surprised. I treated them like my younger brothers and never expected this.” He challenged the claimants, stating he holds the Certificate of Occupancy and Rights of Occupancy, and welcomed legal processes.

Odili detailed that the Ghanaians first reported the case to police and later took it to court. However, he alleged they failed to honour subsequent police invitations after investigations indicated the property was illegally acquired. Odili further claimed the suspects posed as Nigerians, dissolved the company without his knowledge, and removed him from the board of directors.

“I’ve been invited over 15 times and never failed to honour any,” Odili said. “This has been ongoing since last year and has taken a toll on me. I left the United States, where I was receiving medical care, to honour the invitations.” He added that Jones Johnson, who sold him the shares, travelled from Thailand to clarify matters.

Odili questioned the basis of the ownership claim: “How can you claim ownership of a property with fake documents?”

Regarding concerns about the estate and investments, Odili stated prospective investors had verified all necessary ownership documents with relevant institutions like the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA). He asserted that life and businesses within the estate, including a university and teaching hospital, continue normally.

The police findings follow a restraining suit filed by the three Ghanaians against the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Federal High Court, Abuja, issued a ruling restraining these agencies from taking any preemptive action regarding the dispute pending the court’s decision.