Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party Peter Obi, has condemned the continued unlawful occupation of the premises of Next Foods Limited in Ikeja GRA, Lagos, describing the development as a “brazen act of impunity” and a “direct affront to the authority of the court.”
In a statement released on Sunday, Obi expressed dismay that despite several applications pending before the court—including duly filed and served committal proceedings—the individual at the center of the dispute with his brother has continued to flout legal processes and maintain an unauthorized presence on the property.
“It is profoundly disheartening that, notwithstanding the pendency of several applications before the court—including duly filed and served committal proceedings—the individual who unlawfully entered the premises of Next Foods Limited has continued to act with brazen impunity,” Obi said.
“This conduct shows utter disregard for both the authority of the court and the sanctity of public order.”
The business mogul and politician warned that actions such as these, if left unchecked, threaten the foundation of the rule of law and could encourage a culture of lawlessness.
“It is a well-established principle of law—and indeed of civil society—that once parties have submitted their grievances to the judiciary, they are duty-bound to maintain the status quo and allow the court to determine the issues before it,” he continued.
“Any deviation from this principle not only undermines the justice system but also sets a dangerous precedent.”
Obi revealed that he and his younger brother—who serves as Chairman of Next Limited—have made numerous attempts to reach out to the woman who claims ownership of the property.
However, he lamented that all efforts to resolve the matter amicably have been futile.
“We have spared no effort in trying to identify and reach out to the woman who lays claim to the property in question, with the sincere intention of exploring a peaceful and amicable resolution.
“Regrettably, all such efforts have yielded no fruitful outcome, as she remains evasive and inaccessible,” he said.
Though specific details of the dispute remain under judicial consideration, as the identity of the claimant has remained unknown.
The Lagos State government which rejected it had anything to do with the demolition and occupation had promised to investigate and reveal the true picture of the development.
Several months after, no word from the government but the individual, backed by full police and military protection, continues to demolish and occupy the property.
Obi however called on the judiciary and relevant authorities to ensure that the matter is addressed swiftly in line with the law, warning that such unchecked violations erode public confidence in the justice system and threaten lawful enterprise.
