... warns against insubordination
Alhaji Abdulmoshood Babatunde Oni-Orisan, the 86-year-old Head of the Oni-Orisan family, addressed the media in Lagos to clarify the controversy that resulted in the arrest of Harmony Gardens staff and the wanton destruction of the company’s property in Oju Ota, Oko Orisan Village in Epe, Lagos.
During the media briefing, Babatunde Oni-Orisan reiterated his stance, reaffirming the family’s transaction with Harmony Gardens and Estate Development Limited, contrary to the speculations making the rounds. He stressed that the land purchase was valid and irrevocable, confirming that he had sold the landed property on behalf of the family in Oju-Ota, Oko-Orisan Village, Epe, Lagos, with the knowledge and consent of his siblings.
He expressed his disturbance over the actions of Mrs. Modupe Damaisu Oni-Orisan, who he claimed to be his stepsister. She was not satisfied with the transaction with Harmony Gardens and claimed that the same portion of land had been sold to another party, Bashiru Fakorede.
This claim was vehemently denied by the Head of the Oni-Orisan Family, who emphasized that, as the head of the family, he has the right and authority to initiate or delegate any other landed property transactions with anyone, which Modupe Oni-Orisan can attest to.
He confirmed that the family had received an initial payment of N35 million from Harmony Gardens and was expecting a N30 million balance before these issues arose.
He expressed dismay at the encroachment and disruption of Harmony Gardens’ peaceful business on July 17, 2024, alleging that Modupe Oni-Orisan and Fakorede orchestrated the encroachment, demolishing properties worth billions of naira.
It was also gathered that Modupe Oni-Orisan had petitioned the Inspector-General of Police to investigate the matter, leading to several invitations and the arrest of the 86-year-old Abdulmoshood Oni-Orisan.
He also claimed that AIG Zone 2, Olaoye Durosinmi, released armed officers to supervise and provide surveillance for the perpetrators on July 22, 2024.
“The family has evidence, including video recordings and statements from suspects, showing the involvement of Modupe and Fakorede, allegedly backed by Durosinmi,” the family head said.
He has urged the Director of Public Prosecutions, Lagos State Ministry of Justice, to take over the case file and prevent malicious prosecution. Additionally, he is calling on the Inspector General of Police to intervene and prevent unlawful and malicious arraignment and prosecution.