Controversy erupts over sale of Adekunle Fajuyi Family House in Ekiti

A legal battle is brewing in Ekiti State over the ownership and proposed sale of the historic family home of Nigeria’s national hero and Governor of Western Region, the late Colonel Adekunle Fajuyi.

A legal notice issued by Fiduciary Legal Concept, a law firm acting on behalf of concerned stakeholders, has warned Mr. Donald Femi Fajuyi, the eldest son of the family, against any attempt to sell or transfer the property located at No. 1 Fajuyi Lane, Okesha, Ado Ekiti.

According to the notice, the house was rebuilt in 2008 through the efforts of well-meaning Nigerians, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Senator Babafemi Ojudu. The project was aimed at preserving the legacy of Col. Fajuyi by transforming the home into a museum and public monument in his honor.

However, stakeholders allege that Mr. Fajuyi took unilateral possession of the property after its reconstruction, frustrating its intended purpose as a memorial site. Reports now suggest that he is making moves to sell the house, a move the legal representatives describe as a “betrayal of public trust” and a threat to Nigeria’s historical heritage.

The legal notice demands that Mr. Fajuyi immediately halt any plans to sell or transfer the property and engage in discussions with the family and stakeholders on the proper use of the building. He has been given 14 days to provide a written commitment that the property will not be alienated.

The firm warned that any attempt to dispose of the property would result in swift legal action, including an injunction and a petition to relevant heritage authorities at the state and federal levels.

Copies of the legal notice have been sent to key figures, including Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji, the Ewi of Ado Ekiti, and surviving members of the Fajuyi family.