Henry Ugonna Orabuchi Addresses Misleading Allegations Concerning Lekki Waterfront Land

Henry Ugonna Orabuchi has publicly responded to recent defamatory claims made by Elvis Emecheta, which aim to divert attention from the ongoing legal, regulatory, and criminal investigations surrounding the contested Lekki waterfront property currently under court injunction.

Clarifying Ownership and Financial Transparency

Mr. Orabuchi emphasizes his position as a bona fide businessman who lawfully acquired 3,000 square meters of reclaimed waterfront land through a legitimate sales agreement. The transaction was completed in full, including an additional ₦100 million requested by Mr. Emecheta, with all payments made in good faith and documented accordingly.

It is unfounded for Mr. Emecheta-who has reportedly received billions of naira-to label Mr. Orabuchi a “land grabber” simply because the buyer insists on strict adherence to contractual obligations and legal procedures.

Discrepancies in Land Reclamation and Title Issuance

Despite Mr. Emecheta’s public claims that the land reclamation is still underway, he has paradoxically allocated portions of the same reclaimed land to multiple corporate entities and a religious group, providing supporting documentation for these assignments. Conversely, Mr. Orabuchi, the rightful buyer of the 3,000 square meters, has been denied or delayed the issuance of title documents.

This situation raises several critical concerns:

• How can land still under reclamation be legally transferred to third parties?
• Why has Mr. Orabuchi been excluded from receiving title documents despite fulfilling payment obligations?
• What justifies the selective distribution of property titles to other parties?

These contradictions strongly indicate significant irregularities and disputes over ownership, undermining Mr. Emecheta’s assertions of innocence.

Regulatory Breaches and Government Enforcement Measures

Contrary to Mr. Emecheta’s narrative, Lagos State regulatory authorities have confirmed that several structures on the disputed property lack proper permits and approvals. This prompted lawful interventions by the Lagos State Building Control Authority (LASBCA), including the demolition of unauthorized buildings.

These enforcement actions were initiated by government agencies following due process, not by Mr. Orabuchi, further exposing the inaccuracies in Mr. Emecheta’s public statements during the sale process.

Ongoing Legal Actions and Police Investigations

Mr. Orabuchi has formally lodged complaints with the Inspector-General of Police alleging fraud, criminal breach of trust, and related offenses. The IGP subsequently directed the Zone 2 Police Command in Lagos to investigate these claims.

Instead of cooperating, Mr. Emecheta submitted a parallel petition in Abuja, which the IGP redirected back to Zone 2, in line with police protocols against duplicate filings. This maneuver appears to be an attempt to hinder the investigation.

Ironically, Mr. Emecheta now disputes jurisdiction, despite being the first to approach Abuja authorities. Meanwhile, Mr. Orabuchi sought Federal High Court protection only after enduring harassment and threats, despite clear police directives.

Media Engagement, Freedom of Speech, and Intimidation Attempts

Mr. Orabuchi has never attempted to suppress media coverage. When approached by journalists, he exercised his constitutional right to respond with factual information already submitted in court.

It is therefore misleading for Mr. Emecheta-who initially engaged the press with derogatory remarks-to now threaten media outlets for reporting Mr. Orabuchi’s side of the story.

Judicial Intervention and Property Sealing

The court-ordered sealing of the disputed Lekki waterfront land was executed under a valid ex parte order issued by a competent court. This action was necessary to protect the property and maintain public order while the legal dispute is resolved.

Mr. Emecheta’s contradictory and emotional statements only highlight the serious ownership and legal challenges that justify the court’s intervention.

Conclusion and Public Advisory

Henry Ugonna Orabuchi reiterates the following key points for public awareness:

1. He is the legitimate purchaser of 3,000 square meters of reclaimed waterfront land, having fulfilled all contractual and financial obligations.
2. He remains undeterred by defamatory media campaigns or intimidation tactics.
3. All relevant contracts, payment receipts, and regulatory approvals have been submitted to the courts overseeing the matter.
4. He advises the public and prospective investors to exercise caution in dealings with Elvis Emecheta, as the Lekki waterfront property is subject to ongoing civil and criminal litigation.
5. The dispute is firmly before the judiciary, and no amount of misinformation can alter the established facts, legal documentation, or applicable laws.