A United Kingdom-based Nigerian, Aliyu Kazim, has raised concerns over threats to his life following years of legal battles over his property in Ilorin, Kwara State.
Despite securing multiple court rulings in his favor, Kazim alleges that he continues to face harassment, wrongful arrests, and intimidation from powerful individuals linked to the fraudulent sale of his home.
The dispute dates back to 2011 when his lawyer, Barrister Deji Gbadeyan, allegedly sold his property at No. 10, Catchment Road, GRA, Ilorin, without his consent. The house was reportedly purchased for ₦20 million by a senior police officer and Mrs. Adejoke Eyitayo, the wife of a military officer, without proper legal documentation.
After discovering the unauthorized sale, Kazim pursued legal action, and in 2019, the Kwara State High Court declared the transaction null and void, reaffirming him as the rightful owner. The court also ordered Mrs. Eyitayo to vacate the premises.
However, Kazim’s attempts to reclaim his property have been met with strong resistance. Following the court ruling, he was accused of burglary and theft—including allegations of stealing firearms, money, and military uniforms—which led to his arrest and detention at the Inspector General’s Quarters in Ilorin. He was later transferred to the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) in Lagos, where an investigation cleared him of all charges.
Despite this, Kazim says he has continued to face intimidation. He was allegedly arrested again upon arriving in Nigeria at Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos, by a team of police officers reportedly led by Mrs. Eyitayo. He was detained in Ilorin but later secured a court order preventing further harassment. A separate investigation in Abuja confirmed that the accusations against him were baseless, and authorities assured him of disciplinary actions against those responsible.
Despite having a court judgment in his favor, Kazim says he has been unable to repossess his property. While court bailiffs officially handed him the keys, he was met with heavy security presence—including armed police and military officers—whenever he attempted to enter.
“For my safety, I had to leave Nigeria and have not returned due to fears for my life,” he said. “Even the court bailiffs are afraid to enforce the judgment because of the security forces stationed at the property.”
Kazim further revealed that despite winning his case at both the High Court and the Court of Appeal, his attempts to reclaim the house have been met with continued resistance. He also expressed concern that another attempt to enforce the judgment could put him and his family at risk of attack.
“I am calling on the Nigerian government, the Attorney General, and the international community to intervene. Nigerians abroad should be able to return home without fear of persecution,” he pleaded.
Kazim, who owns a 40-hectare farm in Nigeria that provides employment opportunities for youths, lamented that the ongoing threats have made it difficult for him to manage his business effectively.
A report from the Special Fraud Unit of the Nigerian Police, obtained by Sahara Reporters, supports Kazim’s claims. The report, signed by Deputy Commissioner of Police Omole Ola, confirmed that Barrister Gbadeyan fraudulently sold the property and converted the proceeds for personal use. It also found that Mrs. Eyitayo illegally occupied the house and later made unverified claims about stolen firearms and military items.
Authorities have warned that any further attempts to defy the court ruling could result in contempt of court charges against those involved.
Culled From Daily Independent
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