The Rivers State Ministry of Justice has recorded a significant legal victory for the State in Suit No. PHC/2716/2013 – Chief Charles Eleto & 4 Ors. v. The Executive Governor of Rivers State & 3 Ors., before the High Court of Rivers State, presided over by Hon. Justice Nwogu.
In a judgment delivered on 3rd November 2026, the Court dismissed the Claimants’ case over a parcel of land in Iriebe, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, popularly referred to as Ohia Okporiebere or Okohia Mkpor, and upheld the Defendants’ counterclaims in favour of the Rivers State Government.
The Claimants had sought, among other reliefs, declarations of ownership over the disputed land and compensation of ₦816.66 million, alleging that the State Government unlawfully occupied and developed portions of the land without compensation.
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However, the Defendants maintained that the disputed property formed part of State land acquired in 1959, supported by the relevant Certificate of Title and Survey Plan. Among the grounds advanced by the defence against the Claimants’ case were that the action was statute-barred and constituted an abuse of court process, among other legal objections.
Upholding the Defendants’ position, the Court dismissed the Claimants’ case and affirmed the State Government’s exclusive ownership and entitlement to possession of the disputed land. The Court also granted a perpetual injunction restraining the Claimants, their agents and representatives from entering, selling, leasing, alienating, developing or otherwise dealing with the property in a manner inconsistent with the Government’s ownership rights.
The case was successfully handled by Mrs. Anthonia Osademe, Deputy Director, Rivers State Ministry of Justice, who represented the Defendants.
This judgment reinforces the State’s commitment to protecting public assets, safeguarding government property and upholding the rule of law.
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