Judge Condemns Alleged Bribery Attempt by Ghanaians in High-Profile Property Case
In a dramatic courtroom confrontation, Justice Modupe-Osho Adebiyi of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory has publicly rebuked three Ghanaian nationals and their Nigerian lawyer for allegedly attempting to bribe her court. The incident occurred during proceedings related to the controversial River Park Estate ownership dispute, which has been marked by legal twists and allegations of document forgery.
Background of the River Park Estate Controversy
The Nigerian Police initially filed a 26-count charge against the Ghanaian investors—identified as Sam Jonah, Kojo Mensah, and Victor Quianoo—alongside their Nigerian legal counsel, Abu Arome. The charges stemmed from allegations that the accused individuals used falsified ownership documents to claim control of the prestigious River Park Estate. According to police investigations, the defendants allegedly manipulated share capital and employed forged corporate documents for entities including Jonah Capital Nigeria Limited and Houses for Africa Nigeria Limited to assert ownership rights over the estate.
Attorney General's Intervention and Case Discontinuation
However, the legal landscape shifted when the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), intervened in the matter. On January 2, 2026, the AGF officially terminated the criminal proceedings against the Ghanaian investors and their lawyer, citing insufficient evidence to substantiate the fraud and forgery allegations. This decision effectively declared that the accused had no case to answer, despite earlier forensic reports suggesting fraudulent activities.
Judge's Outrage Over Bribery Allegations
During a ruling delivered on Tuesday, Justice Adebiyi expressed visible anger and frustration as she addressed the court. The judge revealed that the accused persons had allegedly attempted to bribe her through the court's registrar, offering money in an effort to compromise the judicial process. In a stern warning, Justice Adebiyi emphasized that she is not susceptible to such corrupt practices and vowed that any future attempts would be met with severe punishment. Her forceful denunciation highlighted concerns about integrity within Nigeria's judicial system.
Legal Community's Reaction and Systemic Concerns
Lawyers present in the courtroom expressed dismay at the alleged bribery attempt, noting that such actions strike at the core of judicial corruption in Nigeria. The incident has raised questions about the AGF's decision to discontinue the case, particularly given the existence of forensic reports indicating potential fraud. Legal professionals are calling for greater transparency and accountability in handling high-stakes property disputes involving foreign investors.
Case Outcome and Implications
Following the AGF's directive to discontinue the charges, Justice Adebiyi formally struck out the case against the Ghanaian investors and Abu Arome. This ruling brings a temporary conclusion to the legal battle over River Park Estate, but the allegations of bribery and document forgery continue to cast a shadow over the proceedings. The episode underscores ongoing challenges in combating corruption within Nigeria's legal and property sectors, while also highlighting the judiciary's resolve to uphold ethical standards.
