Sir Sam Jonah initiates ICC arbitration over Abuja land dispute

Ghanaian businessman Sir Sam Jonah, through JonahCapital Nigeria Limited, has initiated international arbitration proceedings against the Nigerian government regarding a 501-hectare property in Abuja. The dispute, being heard by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) in Paris, concerns the River Park Estate in Lugbe West.

The conflict arose after the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) terminated a development lease agreement in November 2025, claiming the lease had expired. JonahCapital disputes this, asserting the lease remains valid until June 2030 and seeking a declaration that the termination was unlawful.

JonahCapital alleges that the FCDA failed to fulfill its contractual obligations by not providing essential infrastructure, such as roads, electricity, and water, forcing the developer to finance these facilities independently. The company also noted ongoing legal challenges regarding third-party ownership claims on parts of the estate.

Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has confirmed the arbitration and stated that the government would allow the process to reach its conclusion.