An FCT High Court in Maitama has directed security agencies to apprehend police officer Edith Erhunwunse for repeatedly failing to appear in court in connection with an alleged N300 million unlawful eviction and property damage case.
The order was issued by Justice Samira Bature after the prosecution informed the court that the officer had continued to ignore previous directives and court summons despite earlier efforts to secure her attendance.
Erhunwunse is facing trial alongside property developer Cecil Osakwe and legal practitioner Victor Giwa over allegations relating to conspiracy, illegal eviction and destruction of property. Prosecutors claim the defendants unlawfully removed a resident, Asabe Waziri, from her Maitama home in 2022 and allegedly took away valuables worth about N300 million.
The government also alleged that the accused gained access to the property without lawful authorisation and removed several personal belongings, including cash and travel documents.
During the proceedings, prosecuting counsel Aderonke Imana told the court that a previous arrest warrant had already been issued against the police officer and relevant authorities had been notified. She argued that the defendant’s persistent absence had stalled the case for over a year.
After considering the application, Justice Bature expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of progress in producing the defendant before the court and approved a fresh bench warrant.
“The court hereby issues a bench warrant to all law enforcement agencies for the arrest of the third defendant, wherever she may be found, for showing disobedience and disrespect to this court,” Justice Bature held.
The court said the order was made under the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015.
While granting the application, the judge encouraged both parties to continue exploring an amicable resolution and directed them to provide an update at the next hearing.
The matter was adjourned until September 29, 2026, for further proceedings.
