A police investigation recommends prosecution of Ardova Plc officials for alleged forceful takeover of a property in Ikoyi, Lagos, prompting a N5 billion lawsuit from Familia Limited. The dispute involves allegations of unlawful invasion, malicious damage, and breaches of property rights.
A complex property dispute involving Ardova Plc and Familia Limited has escalated, with the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) recommending the prosecution of Ardova officials and Familia Limited filing a N5 billion lawsuit. The dispute centers around a prime property in Ikoyi , Lagos, where Familia Limited alleges a forceful takeover by Ardova Plc .
A police interim report, dated December 6, 2025, details the findings of the investigation, concluding that senior Ardova officials allegedly committed offences including conspiracy, unlawful invasion, malicious damage, and threat to life. The investigation was initiated following a petition from Familia Limited, represented by Capstone Law Firm. The report, signed by Chief Superintendent of Police Taiwo Oyewale, was addressed to the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 2. According to the report, Familia alleged that on August 8, 2025, Ardova officials, accompanied by Lagos State Task Force operatives, entered the premises without a court order, evicted staff, demolished a bungalow, and placed containers claiming ownership. The police report suggests that the case file be duplicated and forwarded to the legal section for advice and possible prosecution. \The investigation revealed that Familia Limited purchased the property in 2013, with documentation, including a Deed of Assignment dated August 18, 2013, confirming the sale. The report also highlights that the Lagos State Government renewed and extended the lease in February 2024 for an additional 99 years, solidifying Familia's claim to the property. Julius Owatuga, the former Chief Finance Officer of Forte Oil Plc, now Managing Director of Geregu Power Plc, confirmed the sale to Familia and that the property was not included in assets transferred to Ardova Plc during the acquisition of Forte Oil's shares. Mr. Olajide, Managing Director, reportedly stated that the property had previously been used as the residence of the managing director when the company operated as British Petroleum. He further claimed that a search at the Lands Registry in Alausa indicated the property remained in British Petroleum's name. However, the police report found that Familia had maintained possession of the property for nearly twelve years and the Lagos State Government had renewed the lease. Forte Oil confirmed the sale and confirmed Familia's building was demolished during the takeover. The police, therefore, recommended legal action. \In a related development, Familia Limited has filed a suit (LD/184721MW/2025) at the Lagos State High Court against Ardova Plc and the Attorney General of Lagos State. The writ, dated December 19, 2025, seeks a declaration that Familia holds legal and equitable title to the property and enjoyed exclusive possession from 2013 until August 8, 2025. Familia is claiming substantial damages, including N48.3 million for the demolished bungalow, N2 billion for trespass and economic losses, N1 billion for defamation, N1 billion for alleged breach of the Deed of Assignment against Ardova Plc, and N1 billion in combined claims against the Lagos State Government for alleged constitutional violations. The company is also seeking N50 million as the cost of the suit, an order for the removal of the containers and inscriptions, and a perpetual injunction to prevent further interference with the property. This legal battle underscores the complex issues surrounding property rights, corporate conduct, and the enforcement of the law within the Nigerian legal system, indicating the need for a decisive resolution to prevent any further escalation. The outcome of both the police investigation and the court case will have significant implications for both parties involved and set a precedent for future property disputes.
Ardova Plc Familia Limited Property Dispute Ikoyi Lawsuit
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