Ellah Lakes warns public against transactions on disputed Edo property

ELLAH Lakes Plc has warned the public against entering into any transaction involving its 2,383.57-hectare property located at Iguelaba in Edo State, saying the land is the subject of ongoing legal proceedings.

In a public disclaimer issued on Wednesday, the company said it is the lawful holder and occupier of the land by virtue of a valid certificate of occupancy granted by the Edo State Government.

According to the company, Median Agro Investment Limited and Mr. Olumide Kayode Akinsanya are currently facing multiple lawsuits instituted by Ellah Lakes over alleged trespass, encroachment, assault and false imprisonment. The company said it is seeking substantial damages in the cases.

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Ellah Lakes cautioned that any individual or organisation dealing with the company, Mr. Akinsanya, or anyone acting on their behalf in relation to the disputed property would do so entirely at their own risk.

The company stated that it would not recognise any transaction, agreement, occupation, development, construction, financing, sale, lease or any other dealing concerning the property if such activities were undertaken through what it described as illegal actions by the defendants or their agents.

It further warned that any individual, contractor, financier, corporate body or collaborator found to have knowingly aided or participated in acts of trespass, encroachment or interference with the property would be held accountable and could face both civil and criminal proceedings under Nigerian law.

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr Chuka Mordi, said the notice was issued to safeguard the company’s proprietary interests and to prevent members of the public from entering into transactions that could expose them to significant legal and financial risks.