A lawyer, Omoniyi O. Sunday Esq, has filed a formal petition to the Inspector General of Police and the Commander of the Force Intelligence Department and Intelligence Response Team (IRT), alleging criminal conspiracy, kidnapping, and threats to Megeli Uwodi’s life.
The petition is against four individuals: Abraham Araman Atama, Uwada Ibrahim Usman Tokula, Salisu Salami, and Jude Sunday.
In the petition dated July 10, 2024, the lawyer called for a comprehensive investigation into the matter, urging law enforcement to take swift action.
He expressed concerns over escalating criminal activities in Kogi State and its environs, where his client, a native of Ofagolo-Okabo Village, has allegedly been subjected to intimidation and threats by a local criminal syndicate.
“Our client owns a large portion of land in Ofagolo-Okabo Village, Kogi State. He gave part of this land to the father of Abraham Araman Atama, the alleged leader of this criminal group,” the petition reads.
Atama, who now resides in Abuja, claims to be a pastor but has been accused of using this cover to engage in criminal activities.
The lawyer noted that despite the father’s departure from the village years ago, his children were allowed to continue farming on the land out of goodwill.
However, the suspects have allegedly developed ties to various criminal gangs and are now laying claim to the entire property, which is currently the subject of an ongoing court case.
“These individuals have terrorized not only our client and his family but the entire community of Ofagolo-Okabo Village, Anyigba, and surrounding areas. They have repeatedly threatened our client, warning him to vacate the land or face severe consequences,” the lawyer wrote.
The petition further alleges that none of the suspects currently resides in the village, but they frequently visit to harass the community, escalating tensions and creating an atmosphere of fear and instability.
The lawyer recounted a recent incident in June 2024 when Atama allegedly led a group of criminal elements into the village, issuing threats of kidnapping and possible elimination of the client and his family.
“Our client, a peaceful farmer, is living in fear for his life and the lives of his family members. Atama even boasted that his men are monitoring our client’s movements, further exacerbating the sense of danger,” the petition states.
The lawyer stressed that the suspects have a long history of criminal activity, tracing back to their late father, and have continued to wreak havoc in the region. He called on law enforcement authorities to intervene before the threats materialize into violent actions.
The petition appealed for the Inspector General of Police to provide protection for the client and his family, ensuring that the alleged criminals are held accountable for their actions.
“We ask for an immediate investigation to bring these individuals to justice and restore peace to the community,” the lawyer said.
