- Lawyer accuses Wike of violating court order
- Property in Maitama demolished despite restraining order
- Form 48 contempt action planned against FCT minister
- Call for Tinubu’s intervention over rule of law
An Abuja-based lawyer, Balla Dakum, has threatened to initiate contempt proceedings against the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, over the alleged unlawful demolition of a property located in Maitama District, Abuja.
Dakum made the threat while addressing judiciary correspondents at a press briefing in Abuja on behalf of his client, Abubakar Ibrahim, Chairman of Mykas Grid Ventures Ltd.
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According to the lawyer, the disputed property, located at Plot 4583, Maitama, Abuja had its perimeter fence and security house demolished by officials of the FCT Development Control Department, allegedly acting on the minister’s directive.
Dakum expressed shock that the demolition was carried out despite a valid court order instructing all parties to maintain the status quo.
“We have called this press conference to address a deeply troubling development involving the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory,” Dakum said.
“Earlier today, despite a valid and subsisting court order directing all parties to maintain status quo, the minister proceeded to demolish a fence on the disputed property situated at Plot No. AO6/4583, Maitama, Abuja.”
He stressed that the minister had already been served with the court processes before the demolition took place.
“Let us be very clear: once a court of competent jurisdiction issues an order to maintain status quo, that order is binding on all parties, regardless of position, power, or office.”
Dakum warned that the action raised serious constitutional concerns and undermined public confidence in democratic institutions.
“The rule of law is the foundation of our democracy. No individual, no matter how highly placed, is above the law,” he said.
“Court orders are not suggestions. They are directives backed by the full force of the law.”
The lawyer disclosed that his legal team would apply for Form 48, a procedural step toward initiating contempt proceedings that could result in committal to prison if the court finds the minister in violation.
He further criticised the manner in which the property was allegedly taken over.
“Worthy of note is the fact that this same Wike is a lawyer and a member of the Body of Benchers,” Dakum stated.
“Yet he allegedly arrived with over 50 armed policemen to take over a property he claims was allocated to Italia Company Limited, without any formal prior notice.”
Dakum called on Bola Tinubu to caution the FCT minister and ensure respect for court orders and judicial authority.