The Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, has stated that there is no legal basis for criminal prosecution against a group of Ghanaian investors involved in a property-related dispute in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.
The position was communicated through a circular issued by the Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation (DPPF) to the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, following a review of investigation materials submitted by the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).
In the circular, referenced DPPA/REQ/224/25 and dated December 30, 2025, the AGF indicated that no prima facie case was established against the affected individuals, including Sir Samuel Esson Jonah, Kojo Ansah Mensah, Victor Quainoo and Abu Arome, Esq.
According to the DPPF, “no prima facie case of forgery or related offences, as contained in Charge No. CR/402/25, has been established against the named persons.” Consequently, the 26-count charge earlier filed by the police was discontinued.
The AGF also acknowledged the findings of a 13-member Special Investigation Panel (SIP) led by Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Imam, which examined petitions connected to Jonah Capital Nigeria Limited and Houses for Africa Nigeria Limited.
The panel’s report, dated March 28, 2025, was described in the circular as comprehensive and objective, having addressed the issues raised in the petitions submitted for review.
In the same communication, the AGF noted that the issues reviewed were largely commercial and contractual in nature, and therefore more appropriately addressed through civil processes rather than criminal prosecution, in line with the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015.
The AGF also advised that public communications by law enforcement agencies should remain within the bounds of their statutory responsibilities, particularly where matters are already subject to judicial processes.
The circular further explained that matters relating to land ownership and contractual rights fall within the jurisdiction of the courts, and not administrative or investigative authorities.
The dispute had earlier drawn public attention following reports of tension and security concerns within River Park Estate, Abuja. In response, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) constituted a separate committee to review issues relating to safety and stakeholder concerns within the estate.
The AGF further directed the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) to restore the shareholding structure of Jonah Capital Nigeria Limited and Houses for Africa Nigeria Limited to the position existing prior to December 8, 2025, noting that ownership-related issues are already before the courts for determination.
Additionally, the AGF called for the proper investigation of any reported incidents of violence or property damage linked to the dispute, emphasizing that all complaints should be handled lawfully, impartially, and in accordance with due process.
He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to the rule of law, protection of investments, and the appropriate separation between civil disputes and criminal justice processes.