Nyesom Wike: The Fight to Preserve Col. Paul Ogbebor’s Estate
Lt. Colonel Paul Osakpamwan Ogbebor wasn’t just a soldier; he was a trailblazer. Born on May 24, 1939, in Benin City, Edo State, he made history as the first Nigerian to enroll in the prestigious Course 1 of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA). His career was marked by service and sacrifice, including his role as a veteran of the Nigerian Civil War.
An Honorable Life, a Lasting Legacy
After serving Nigeria honorably, Col. Ogbebor retired and focused on building Paulosa Nigeria Limited, a company that played a crucial role in the development of Abuja. From constructing sewage systems to bringing in international expertise, his contributions to the nation’s capital were undeniable. Sadly, Col. Ogbebor passed away on February 19, 2020, but his legacy lived on—or so it seemed.
The Property Dispute: A Widow’s Fight
Chief Rita Lori-Ogbebor, Col. Ogbebor’s widow, has recently found herself in a bitter battle to protect her late husband’s legacy. At the heart of the conflict is an estate in Abuja’s Life Camp area, owned by Paulosa Nigeria Limited. Despite years of compliance, payments, and revalidations, the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) issued a quit notice on November 22, 2024. By December 9, the property had been reallocated to another company with ties to a high-profile politician.
Allegations of Foul Play
According to Chief Rita, the new allocation raises many questions. She discovered through the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) that the reallocated property was issued a Certificate of Ownership just weeks after the quit notice. She alleges that the new company’s director has connections to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, sparking suspicions of corruption and land grabbing.
A Widow’s Plea
Chief Rita isn’t staying silent. She has called on President Bola Tinubu to investigate the matter and stop the unjust revocation of lands in Abuja. She argues that her husband earned this estate through legitimate means and that it represents his life’s work. For her, protecting the property isn’t just about land—it’s about preserving Col. Ogbebor’s legacy.
The Larger Issue: Land Grabbing in Abuja
The case raises broader concerns about land allocation in Abuja. Chief Rita questions why lands acquired through hard work and sacrifice are being taken from rightful owners. She believes it’s time to probe these practices and hold accountable those responsible for undermining the law.
A Call for Justice
Chief Rita has taken legal action, determined to fight for her husband’s name and legacy. She reminds Nigerians that Col. Ogbebor wasn’t just a man of words but of deeds, whose contributions helped shape the country. Now, she asks the government to do what’s right—to honor the memory of a man who gave so much to Nigeria.
Nyesom Wike Col. Paul Ogbebor’s Estate
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