Court Stops Lagos State from Seizing Widow's Estate

The Lagos State High Court, presided over by Justice E.O. Ashad, has granted an interim order to restrain the Lagos State Government from taking possession of an estate belonging to Chief H.K.

Shonowo, an 80-year-old widow. The estate, located in Lekki Peninsula Scheme, consists of 11 units of four-bedroom terraced houses, three three-bedroom flats, a two-bedroom flat, and a commercial shop, covering approximately 4,300 square meters.

The court's decision follows a suit filed by Chief Shonowo, representing herself and her late husband, Chief Owodiran Olusoga Shonowo. The court found sufficient grounds for interim relief, noting that the widow has suffered hardship due to the government's actions.

The Lagos State Government, represented by the Attorney General and Governor, was ordered not to interfere with the property until the substantive suit is determined. The widow claims she entered a joint venture agreement for property development, which has faced delays, and she is entitled to the units promised under the agreement.