Fresh Twist in River Park Dispute as Police Reopen Investigation
By Ifeoma Ikem
ABUJA – In a dramatic reversal, the Nigeria Police Force has reopened its investigation into the long-running dispute surrounding River Park Estate, following fresh directives from the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun.
The renewed probe centers on allegations of document forgery leveled against Ghanaian businessman Sir Samuel Jonah and three associates. This comes less than a week after the police had publicly declared the matter closed.
IGP Orders Fresh Probe After Stakeholder Meeting

According to credible sources, the IGP issued the directive after a high-level meeting with key stakeholders and senior officers on July 2. The decision effectively nullifies the controversial June 27 press briefing led by Deputy Commissioner of Police Akin Fakorede, during which businessman Paul Odili was declared the “owner” of River Park Estate — a stance now disavowed by police leadership.
Criminal Charges Withdrawn Pending Review
Sources familiar with the case confirmed that charges filed on June 26 against Sir Jonah, Kojo Ansah Mensah, Victor Quainoo, and legal practitioner Abu Arome are now expected to be withdrawn to allow for an impartial investigation.
“The charges are expected to be formally withdrawn pending completion of the fresh investigation ordered by the IGP,” a senior police official disclosed.
Documents reviewed by our correspondent confirm that during the July 2 meeting, the IGP emphasized that the police probe would be confined strictly to criminal allegations — particularly forgery — and would not involve determining land ownership.
“The NPF’s investigation is strictly focused on allegations of forgery — not land matters or ownership. Only the courts can vest or divest land rights,” the IGP reportedly stated.
This position aligns with Section 32(2) of the Police Act 2020, which restricts police authority to criminal investigations, placing ownership disputes firmly within the jurisdiction of the courts.
Mounting Tensions Within the Estate
Despite the IGP’s intervention, tension continues to escalate in River Park. Following the June 27 press briefing, residents allege that Odili demanded ₦250,000 from homeowners for processing Certificates of Occupancy. The Riverpark Estate Residents Association (RERA) has since issued a fraud alert, urging residents to be vigilant.
Additionally, private security operatives have reportedly obstructed waste collection and barred entry to members of the NNPC Staff Club. In response, the club formally requested security assistance from JonahCapital.
In another twist, communal parcels of land originally earmarked for schools and hotels have allegedly been fenced off by companies linked to Odili, including Aazik Homes and Victory Integrated.
Legal Battle Intensifies
The ownership of River Park Estate remains the subject of at least ten active lawsuits, including suits numbered CV/4221/24 and FCT/HC/CV/1789/2025. Legal experts note that this strengthens the IGP’s stance that only the judiciary can settle the issue of rightful ownership.
Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, affirmed the police’s current position:
“While initial charges were filed, no arrests or arraignments occurred pursuant to the IGP’s directive. The investigation remains open-ended.”
Residents Left in Limbo
Meanwhile, uncertainty continues to grip the estate. RERA has cautioned homeowners against making payments that could undermine their legal standing. The NNPC Staff Club has also condemned what it describes as the “denial of essential services” to lawful residents.
Critical community facilities — including schools and clinics — remain under lock and key, guarded by private security operatives whose allegiance remains in question.