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,,,,Justice has finally prevailed after a decade-long dispute–Dr. Odje.
By Wilson Macaulay in Warri.
In a landmark decision, the High Court sitting in Warri, Delta State, has declared the Essi Family of Igbudu, Warri, as the rightful owners of a prime commercial property formerly known as the International Hotel, now serving as the head office of Agofure Motors.
The ruling, delivered by Hon. Justice P.O. Onajite-Kuejubola in Suit No. W/181/2017, brought to an end a legal dispute that had spanned over ten years.
The case centered on the ownership of the property located at Deco Junction, a strategic location that has evolved into one of Delta State’s busiest transportation hubs.
The court held that the Essi Family had established lawful ownership of the property through valid historical and legal claims.
The judgment has been widely hailed as a significant victory for land rights and indigenous ownership.
Observers say the ruling could have far-reaching implications for similar property disputes in urban areas.
The property in question had become highly contested following its transformation into a major commercial asset in the state.
Over the years, it had been a focal point of tension, with multiple parties laying claim to its ownership.
The court’s declaration finally offers closure on a matter that had generated considerable local interest. For the Essi Family, the judgment represents the restoration of what they describe as a long-denied right.
Represented by the legal firm of Dr. Mudiaga Odje SAN & Co (Ewewu Chambers), the Essi Family had approached the court seeking a declaration of ownership and redress against what they described as unlawful encroachment on their ancestral land.
Their legal argument was anchored on historical documentation, family inheritance records, and previous land adjudications.
The court said it found these submissions to be compelling and consistent with established legal principles governing land ownership in Nigeria.
In her ruling, Justice Onajite-Kuejubola dismissed opposing claims as lacking sufficient legal merit and held that the defendants failed to prove ownership or right of occupation.
The verdict has been praised by land rights advocates who argue that commercial expansion in urban areas like Warri must not override legitimate ancestral claims.
The legal team for the Essi Family expressed satisfaction with the judgment, stating that it reinforces the importance of judicial independence and the rule of law.
Legal analysts believe the ruling could set a strong precedent for future property cases involving indigenous communities.
They argue that the outcome sends a message that documentation, not occupation or commercial use, is the ultimate determinant of ownership under Nigerian law. The family has since urged all parties involved to respect the court’s decision and allow peace to prevail.
Reacting to the verdict, Dr. Akpo Mudiaga Odje, Associate Counsel at Ewewu Chambers and a renowned constitutional lawyer, described the ruling as a bold statement from the judiciary in support of indigenous land rights.
He stressed that the judgment is not just a legal victory for the Essi Family but a reaffirmation of justice for all communities whose land rights are at risk due to urban encroachment. According to Dr. Odje,
“This verdict is a landmark because it reiterates the court’s commitment to fairness, equity, and the sanctity of ownership rights, especially in places like Warri where rapid development has sparked numerous land conflicts,”he said.
He emphasized that the judiciary remains the last hope of the common man and expressed hope that the ruling would deter future attempts to unlawfully seize family lands.
Legal commentators have also applauded the judgment for its depth and clarity, pointing out that it carefully weighed evidence over sentiment. Many noted that the thorough approach of the presiding judge reinforces public confidence in the courts.
The case, they say, offers valuable lessons on the importance of proper documentation and legal processes in resolving disputes. Across Delta State, the ruling has sparked discussions on land governance and justice delivery.
As the legal dust settles, the Essi Family has indicated readiness to take necessary steps to reclaim and manage the property lawfully.
For many, the judgment symbolizes a much-needed balance between development and the rights of indigenous landowners.
Efforts to obtain a formal reaction from the management of Agofure Motors have so far been unsuccessful.
As of press time, the company had not issued any official statement regarding the court’s ruling or their next line of action.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
