Prince Solomon Ayodele Akran firmly rejects claims of unlawfully seizing a residence in Ibereko, Lagos, calling them baseless attacks on his reputation. He attributes the dispute to a legitimate rental deal gone wrong, not forceful entry.
Dispute Origins
The conflict involves a property at No. 3, Godo Estate, Ibereko, in Olorunda Local Council Development Area, owned by the late Retired Naval Commander J.R.T. Williams, who died in April 2025 after living abroad. Her daughter managed renovations, hiring carpenter Temitope Lanre Lumpkin, who held the keys. Prince Akran says a property agent connected him with Lumpkin in early 2025; he paid ₦2.1 million as annual rent on April 25, receiving a handwritten receipt and verbal assurances from the landlord’s lawyer, Mr. Mike Kebonkwu, that Lumpkin was authorized.
Accusations from Rights Group
The Nigerian Human Rights Community (NHRC), a coalition of 130 groups, petitioned Akran of Badagry, De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I, on or around December 15, 2025, alleging Prince Akran colluded with the carpenter to occupy the home without consent. Signed by NHRC’s Kunle Ajayi, the petition claims he admitted the error upon confrontation in July 2025, promised to leave by August’s end, but reneged, issuing threats invoking Ogboni society leadership and voodoo while claiming royal immunity. NHRC labels this a violation of Lagos tenancy laws and criminal intimidation.
Prince Akran’s Defense
Prince Akran clarifies he is a crowned prince, son of the late Oba Ajiyon Kanwo—not the biological son of the current Akran—and denies using royal status to intimidate. He received a quit notice from Kebonkwu, who then disavowed Lumpkin as mere carpenter; his team responded asserting valid tenancy. Only ₦1 million of the rent was refunded via the introducing agent, prompting demands for the balance; he agrees to vacate by December’s end after securing new housing.
Palace Response and Legal Path
The Akran’s lawyer, Barrister Tinka Gigonu, states the palace never received the NHRC petition and distances the monarch from the matter, urging court resolution over traditional involvement. Prince Akran’s attorney, Barrister John Setome Wusu, confirms sending clarification letters and plans court action for rent recovery and defamation over NHRC’s claims. Prince Akran appeals for public restraint amid what he calls sensational coverage by outlets like Oriental News.
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