Court Mandates Joint Administration of Late Cross River Ex-SSG’s Estate Over Property Dispute

A Probate Court in Calabar has directed that the estate of former Secretary to the Cross River State Government, Chief Wilfred Oden Inah, be jointly administered by representatives of the family following a dispute over the ownership and sale of one of the deceased’s properties.

The decision came after disagreements emerged among members of the family over the alleged disposal of a property forming part of the late statesman’s estate. The disputed asset, located in Calabar, reportedly consists of residential apartments and a sizeable parcel of land.

Family members challenged the transaction, arguing that the property was sold without the collective consent of beneficiaries. They maintained that the estate should be managed in line with the wishes of the deceased and through a process that accommodates the interests of all entitled parties.

In its ruling, the court ordered the inclusion of four family representatives in the application for Letters of Administration to ensure broader participation in the management of the estate. The selected representatives are expected to provide the necessary information required by the Probate Registry.

The case was triggered by objections raised over moves to administer the estate without the involvement of all branches of the family. Relatives who opposed the arrangement argued that decisions concerning the estate should not be taken unilaterally.

The widow of the deceased distanced herself from the disputed transaction, stating that she neither approved nor benefited from the sale. On his part, the purchaser maintained that the acquisition was conducted lawfully and expressed readiness to relinquish the property if the purchase sum was refunded.

The ruling is expected to strengthen transparency in the administration of the estate and pave the way for a more inclusive resolution of issues surrounding the late former government official’s assets.Meta Description: