Residents of FESTAC Town, Lagos, have asked for protection from the Inspector General of Police through their legal representative, Adetayo Bello Esq., over what they described as the alarming and flagrant disregard for the rule of law by officials of the Federal Housing Authority (FHA), whom they allege have continued to demolish properties in FESTAC Extension 6th Avenue despite a valid court injunction restraining further demolitions.
The residents are asking for protection based on an order given by Justice O.J. Awope of the Lagos State High Court sitting in Ikeja on September 11, 2023, which explicitly restrained the FHA and its agents from demolishing buildings in FESTAC Town’s 6th Avenue or other areas pending the resolution of a substantive suit delineated ID/7397GCM/2023.
They alleged that despite this legal directive, officials of the FHA have resumed demolitions, causing extensive damage to properties and distress to residents.
“This act not only represents a contempt of court but also a criminal abuse of power that can endanger public peace,” the residents said through their lawyer.
They appealed for the urgent action of the Nigeria Police Force in investigating the FHA Zonal Manager and his associates for contempt of court and other alleged offences and also protection to prevent further illegal demolitions and ensure the protection of their rights and properties.
They emphasised that the unlawful actions of the FHA officials undermine public confidence in the judiciary and violate the fundamental rights of property owners in FESTAC Town and expressed hope that the Inspector General of Police would intervene decisively to uphold justice and restore stability to the community.
The FHA has yet to issue an official response despite being contacted.
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