By Erewunmi Peace

Popular Lagos-based socialite and real estate figure, Olaseni Johnson Olayinika, widely known as Abu Abel, has been arrested by operatives of the Force Criminal Investigations Department (FCID), Alagbon, for his alleged involvement in a ₦447 million land scam.

Arrest After Weeks on the Run

Acting on the orders of the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, AIG Margaret Ochalla, a tactical team led by CSP Taiwo Oyewole tracked and arrested the suspect at a residence in Victoria Island, where he had reportedly gone into hiding to avoid law enforcement.

Police sources confirmed that Abel had been evading arrest for weeks and was arrested without resistance following coordinated intelligence operations.

The Allegation

According to a petition filed by Doyin Investment Group of Companies, the suspect allegedly sold three plots of land located at Augustina Orji Street, Oke-Arin Village, Mayegun, in Eti-Osa LGA, Lagos. The land, measuring approximately 1,800 square meters, was sold for ₦447 million in 2023.

The transaction involved a Deed of Assignment, and Abel reportedly presented himself as the rightful owner of Plots 1, 4, and 10. However, the company later discovered that the land was encumbered and already subject to third-party claims.

Partial Refund, Broken Promises

When confronted, the suspect admitted knowledge of the land dispute and agreed to a refund. He repaid ₦230 million over time but failed to return the outstanding ₦217 million.

On January 11, 2024, Abu Abel reportedly signed a written undertaking, promising to repay the balance or forfeit a property located at Block C, Plot 22, Oba Amusa Adebambo Avenue, Lekki.

Despite the agreement, the suspect stopped repaying and allegedly resorted to filing a fundamental human rights suit—a move the police described as an attempt to stall justice.

Police Confirm Arrest

Sources at the FCID confirmed that Abu Abel was arrested after weeks of surveillance and that the investigation is ongoing. Authorities assured the public that the case would be prosecuted diligently.

With the suspect now in custody, legal proceedings are expected to commence shortly. It remains to be seen whether the remaining funds will be recovered or if the Lekki property will be seized as agreed.