NIGERIANS MUST WATCH EFCC ILLEGALITY; CORRUPTION MUST BE FOUGHT, NOT WITH ILLEGALITY

 RULE OF LAW TAKES CENTRE STAGE AS FEDERAL HIGH COURT EXAMINES EFCC'S APPROACH IN HIGH-PROFILE PROPERTY DISPUTE

Judge's Reported Remarks Spark Wider Debate on Due Process, Bail Rights, and the Ownership Battle Over Plots 1861 and 1862

The Federal High Court proceedings involving Rebecca Omokamo Godwin-Isaac have evolved beyond an ordinary criminal prosecution into a case attracting wider public interest over the administration of justice, constitutional safeguards, and the proper exercise of prosecutorial powers.

During the latest hearing, the court reportedly declined an application by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) seeking to revoke Rebecca's bail and keep her in custody until 26 October 2026, a decision that has intensified public discussion about due process and the protection of fundamental rights.

According to reports from the courtroom, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik questioned the prosecution's handling of the matter, reportedly asking:

"Don't you think you are becoming too personal about this case? Are you witch-hunting something?"

The judge was also reported to have observed that previous court orders granting bail were intended to ensure the defendant's availability whenever required by the court, rather than to justify continued detention before the conclusion of the trial.

The courtroom exchange has since generated debate among legal practitioners, civil society organisations, and constitutional scholars on the importance of respecting judicial decisions, preserving the presumption of innocence, and ensuring that prosecutorial powers are exercised within the limits of the law.

Ownership of Plots 1861 and 1862 Still Before the Court

A major issue before the court remains the disputed ownership of Plots 1861 and 1862, which has yet to be finally determined through the judicial process.

The defence maintains that the properties were linked to May Estate Agency and Famfam Nigeria Limited, arguing that Colleen Mero Yesufu was neither an original allottee nor a director or shareholder of those companies. The defence submits that these issues should be conclusively resolved by the court before any determination regarding ownership is made.

The prosecution disputes those assertions, leaving the matter for judicial determination based on the evidence presented.

Questions Over Missing Land Administration Records

Proceedings also drew attention to an authorization reportedly issued to Shaka Braimah, who allegedly collected title documents relating to the disputed properties.

Evidence before the court reportedly indicated that officials of the FCT Department of Land Administration acknowledged that the authorization document could not presently be located.

The defence argues that the missing record raises important questions concerning the management, custody, and integrity of official land documents. The significance of that issue remains one for the court to evaluate during the trial.

A Broader Conversation About Constitutional Governance

Legal observers say the proceedings have increasingly become a broader test of constitutional governance, highlighting the need for judicial independence, institutional accountability, and unwavering respect for the rule of law.

Rebecca Omokamo Godwin-Isaac has not been convicted of any criminal offence, while the ownership of the disputed properties remains undetermined by the court.

Analysts note that, until the court delivers its final judgment, every party is entitled to a fair hearing, equal protection under the law, and the full benefit of the constitutional presumption of innocence.

They further argue that public confidence in Nigeria's justice system depends on impartial investigations, respect for court orders, and allowing the judiciary to determine disputed facts solely on the basis of credible evidence presented before it.

As proceedings continue, national attention is expected to remain focused not only on the eventual resolution of the ownership dispute but also on the judiciary's role in upholding due process, protecting constitutional rights, and reinforcing the rule of law.