The high-stakes ownership tussle over the former Cubana Lounge in Abuja has taken a dramatic turn as court officers on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, enforced an eviction order and delivered full possession of the prized Wuse II property to businessman Collins Onwuzulike.
The operation, however, unfolded under unusually tense and chaotic conditions—raising fresh questions about the integrity of property enforcement in Nigeria’s capital.
At about 8 a.m., sheriffs of the Federal Capital Territory High Court arrived at Plot 81, Ademola Adetokunbo Crescent, where the elite Cubana Lounge once thrived under the ownership of Obinna “Obi Cubana” Iyiegbu’s company. What should have been a straightforward court enforcement quickly morphed into a hard-faced confrontation.
Witnesses say individuals believed to be hired thugs attempted to obstruct the bailiffs from entering the premises. The situation intensified when the court officials alleged that police escorts—initially assigned to protect the team—suddenly disappeared without explanation.
Despite the mounting pressure and threats, the court officials pressed on.
By mid-morning, workers were seen dismantling generators, AC units, fittings, and other heavy equipment belonging to the lounge. Staff members lingered outside, visibly distraught, as their workplace was stripped down. A bold eviction notice was placed at the entrance, signaling a decisive shift in control.
Tuesday’s enforcement did not occur in a vacuum. It followed a botched attempt in November when Onwuzulike briefly regained possession—an action that was abruptly halted after another court in Bwari issued conflicting orders. The back-and-forth created an administrative gridlock and heightened tensions around the property’s status.
Legal observers say the conflicting directives underscore persistent coordination gaps in Nigeria’s judicial processes, especially on matters involving high-value commercial real estate.
The dispute formally traces back to July 2025, when the FCT High Court in Gwagwalada ruled that Onwuzulike—through his company, SEMC Investment Ltd.—was the lawful owner of the property.
Court documents reveal that he purchased the building from Rev. Chidiebere Amakaeze for ₦2 billion, backed by a Power of Attorney and Deed of Assignment executed effective May 1, 2024. Despite fulfilling his obligations, Onwuzulike claimed he was denied possession, prompting him to seek legal redress.
Justice J.A. Aina, in the landmark ruling, not only affirmed Onwuzulike’s ownership but also ordered all occupants to vacate immediately. The court further directed the Inspector General of Police and other security agencies to support the enforcement process.
Tuesday’s operation appears to be the firmest execution of that order since the legal battle began.
