Operatives of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) have arrested Lagos-based socialite and businessman, Abu Abel, over an alleged ₦447 million land scam.
Abu Abel was apprehended during a coordinated raid on his residence in Victoria Island, Lagos, led by Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Taiwo Oyewole. The arrest followed a petition filed by Doyin Investment Group, accusing the socialite of fraudulent land dealings involving three plots in Eti-Osa Local Government Area.
Why Abu Abel Was Arrested
According to police sources, Abu Abel reportedly sold three parcels of land located in Eti-Osa to Doyin Investment Group in 2023, collecting a total of ₦447 million. He presented himself as the rightful owner and issued a deed of assignment to the buyer.
However, subsequent investigations revealed that the land had existing claims from third parties. When confronted, the suspect allegedly admitted that the land was encumbered and agreed to refund the money. He refunded ₦230 million but failed to remit the outstanding ₦217 million or provide a replacement property in Lekki, as agreed in a written commitment in January 2024.
Instead, Abu Abel allegedly resorted to legal delay tactics by filing a human rights lawsuit, stalling further action against him.
Police Investigation and Evidence Recovery
During the arrest operation, FCID officers reportedly recovered vital documents, including payment receipts, email correspondence, land transfer papers, and WhatsApp messages exchanged between the suspect and the complainant.
The FCID has since expanded the scope of the investigation, linking Abu Abel to a suspected land fraud ring operating across Lagos and Ogun States. Authorities say additional charges may be filed based on emerging leads and other related complaints.
Pending Charges and Legal Action
Police plan to formally charge Abu Abel with the following offences:
Fraud
Criminal breach of trust
Conspiracy to defraud
The Doyin Investment Group has urged the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to ensure full prosecution and recovery of the remaining ₦217 million, noting that the incident reflects a growing trend of high-profile real estate scams in the country.
Public Reaction and Ongoing Case
The case has sparked debate online, with many Nigerians calling for stricter regulation of the real estate sector and swift legal action against fraudulent developers and intermediaries.
Abu Abel, known for his flamboyant lifestyle and ties to the Lagos social scene, remains in police custody pending arraignment.