Human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Femi Falana, has petitioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to intervene in a property dispute involving an 80-year-old widow in Abuja, alleging an attempt to unlawfully seize her property.
In the petition, Falana urged the anti-graft agency to protect the interests of the widow and investigate claims that a woman identified as Rebecca Isaac is attempting to take over the disputed property through alleged fraudulent means.
According to the petition, the widow has been in lawful possession of the property for several years and has valid ownership documents supporting her claim. Falana argued that despite her advanced age, she has been subjected to intimidation and harassment by individuals allegedly acting on behalf of the claimant.
The senior lawyer called on the EFCC to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the ownership dispute, verify the authenticity of all documents presented by the parties, and ensure that justice is served.
He warned that land grabbing and property-related fraud have become increasingly common in the Federal Capital Territory, often targeting vulnerable citizens, including widows and the elderly.
Falana further urged the commission to take swift action to prevent any unlawful eviction or transfer of ownership pending the outcome of investigations. He stressed that the rule of law must be upheld and that vulnerable Nigerians deserve protection from exploitation.
The petition is expected to add a new dimension to the ongoing dispute as the EFCC considers the allegations and determines the appropriate course of action.
Neither Rebecca Isaac nor any representative linked to her had publicly responded to the allegations at the time of filing this report.
The case highlights growing concerns over land ownership disputes in Abuja and renewed calls for stronger measures to combat property fraud and protect legitimate property owners.
