By Golok Nanmwa,Jos 


Justice T.E. Gutep of the Senior Magistrate Court in Abbattior, Jos, Plateau State, has ordered all parties involved in a land dispute case to maintain the status quo pending the next hearing on August 5th. The case, which involves Yakubu Jang, son of former Plateau State Governor Jonah Jang, revolves around allegations of criminal trespass, mischief, and criminal intimidation.


The complaint was filed under case number CMCA 144CR/2024. The plaintiff claims that Yakubu Jang has been harassing, threatening, and attempting to develop a piece of land near Jos Air Force Junction, which the plaintiff asserts has been in his possession for over 40 years as the site of Super Fine Furniture.


Justice Gutep emphasized the need for calm and order until the court can fully address the matter. "All parties are to maintain the status quo due to the ongoing dispute over the land," the judge stated. 

The judge also highlighted that the case is bailable and granted bail to the defendant, setting the bond at 2 million naira with a surety resident in Jos.


The defense, led by C.A. Eichie, argued that the case is a civil matter wrongfully framed as a criminal issue. Eichie asserted that the defense council was fully prepared to clarify that the case being a dispute over land title is purely civil, describing the charges as an attempt to intimidate his client. "There’s nothing criminal about it. It’s purely a civil matter which has to do with the title to land," Eichie argued.


Despite the contentious nature of the proceedings, the judge's decision to adjourn the case and maintain the status quo aims to ensure that the situation remains stable until the next hearing. The court's encouragement of possible out-of-court settlements also opens the door for a potential amicable resolution.


The case will resume on August 5th, when the court will continue to examine the details of the dispute and the allegations involved.