The Deputy Governor of Ondo State has refuted recent media reports alleging a land dispute with a widow in Abuja, stating that his claim to the property predates her own and that the matter is already before a court of law.
In a statement released by his legal team, Idi DanAbubakar and Co., the deputy governor expressed his disappointment with the “false publication” and emphasized the public’s right to a balanced version of the facts.
According to the law firm, the deputy governor’s legal title to the land is dated August 25, 2000, which is “first in time” when compared to the claimants’ title document dated December 11, 2000.
The lawyers, A.B. Mamman and Ephraim Garba, noted that the rival claim over the property emerged only after the deputy governor assumed his current office, suggesting the lawsuit and subsequent media reports are an attempt to “whip up sentiment unnecessarily.”
The firm also stated that the media outlets failed to contact the deputy governor’s lawyers for a fair balance of the story.
The statement also highlighted the deputy governor’s long-standing commitment to assisting widows, citing his co-founding of the Elizabeth Foundation with his wife.
The foundation is described as a humanitarian initiative that provides financial empowerment, training, and welfare support to over a thousand widows annually in both Owo and Abuja.
The lawyers argued that it is “inconceivable” to suggest that a man who has dedicated his life to uplifting widows would “oppress one,” calling the allegation a betrayal of his character and philanthropic efforts.
The deputy governor, they added, is confident in his case and believes the court will ultimately deliver justice. He remains committed to his service to the people of Ondo State and his ongoing support for vulnerable individuals.
