By Damilola Adeleke

Concerned stakeholders have issued a legal warning to Donald Fajuyi, son of Nigeria’s late military hero, Colonel Adekunle Fajuyi, over plans to sell his father’s historic home in Ado-Ekiti. The house, which was rebuilt in 2008 with funds from President Bola Tinubu, Senator Babafemi Ojudu, and other well-meaning Nigerians, was intended to serve as a public museum in honor of the late hero.

A legal notice from Fiduciary Legal Concept, a law firm representing the stakeholders, was sent to Donald Fajuyi, demanding an immediate halt to any proposed sale, lease, or transfer of the property located at No. 1 Fajuyi Lane, Okesha, Ado-Ekiti. Copies of the letter were also forwarded to Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji, Oba Rufus Adejugbe, and surviving members of the Fajuyi family.

According to the letter, the house was reconstructed with the intention of preserving the legacy of Colonel Adekunle Fajuyi, who was executed during the 1966 coup for standing by Major General Aguiyi Ironsi. Stakeholders allege that Donald Fajuyi took possession of the house for personal use, thereby preventing it from serving its intended purpose as a public monument.

The legal notice accused Donald of betraying public trust and warned that any attempt to sell or transfer the property would result in swift legal action. The stakeholders also vowed to seek an injunction, a preservation order, and involvement from state and federal heritage bodies to block the sale.

Furthermore, the letter outlined three key demands: that Donald immediately cease any transaction involving the property, engage in discussions with stakeholders and family members, and provide a written acknowledgment within 14 days confirming that he would not proceed with the sale.

The controversy has sparked widespread debate, with some Nigerians arguing that the house remains a family property and Donald Fajuyi has the right to sell it. Others insist that since it was rebuilt with public funds, it should be preserved as a national monument.

Legal experts suggest that the case may depend on whether the property was officially designated as a heritage site. If considered private property, Donald Fajuyi may retain ownership rights. However, if the government or donors can prove a legal commitment to its preservation, they could successfully block the sale.

As the 14-day deadline approaches, all eyes remain on Donald Fajuyi’s response to the stakeholders’ demands.