Rights activist Mahmud urges peaceful resolution over estate dispute

An Abuja-based Lawyer and Rights Activist, Dr. Abdul Mahmud, has called for calm and dialogue in the protracted dispute involving the Residents Association of Fatima Gold Estate, Mararaba, Nasarawa State, the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Amabua Muhammed, and other residents over the enforcement of estate rules.

The dispute, which has lingered for nearly two years, stems from disagreements over the payment of estate dues and the authority of the residents’ association to enforce compliance measures within the estate.

Tensions escalated after some residents, including the senior police officer, were alleged to have defaulted on agreed levies, prompting enforcement actions such as the disconnection of electricity supply to affected properties.

The situation took a dramatic turn on May 27, 2023, when Mahmud was arrested after he reportedly prevented DCP Muhammed from arresting a security officer within the estate without a warrant.

The incident followed the service of a demand notice on the police officer over unpaid dues, which reportedly triggered the confrontation.

Mahmud’s arrest drew swift reactions from members of the legal community and rights advocates, who condemned the action as an abuse of power.

The then Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, subsequently ordered his release through his Principal Staff Officer, Tunji Bello.

Despite his release, the matter degenerated into what observers described as a personal standoff between the parties. The dispute later led to the prosecution of Mahmud and the former chairman of the residents’ association, Emmanuel Ejeh, at a Senior Magistrate Court in Mararaba.

It also culminated in Mahmud’s recent detention for several days, further attracting criticism from legal practitioners and civil society groups.

In a statement issued on Monday, Mahmud said efforts were underway to resolve the matter amicably, stressing the need for restraint and constructive engagement by all parties.

He said the enforcement measures taken by the association, including disconnection of electricity to defaulting properties, were intended to promote cooperation and orderly development within the estate, not to cause harm or distress.

Mahmud acknowledged that the process had caused significant inconvenience and expressed regret over the grievances and media reports surrounding the dispute.

He further revealed that all previous publications on the matter had been retracted, urging stakeholders and the media to support ongoing peace efforts by halting further dissemination of related content.

The latest development signals a possible de-escalation of tensions, as stakeholders explore non-confrontational avenues to resolve the dispute that has polarised residents and attracted wider public attention.