A Lagos High Court has delivered a landmark judgment ordering a prominent businesswoman and former staff of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Ms. Funke Otti, to return a property and remit over ₦473 million to her former husband, Chief Isaac Morakinyo Jolapamo.

The court’s decision follows a legal battle centered on allegations that Ms. Otti unlawfully acquired assets belonging to Chief Jolapamo. In addition to the forfeiture of the disputed property, the presiding judge ordered a refund of ₦410,347,000.00, representing specific funds handled during the course of their association, along with an additional remittance of ₦63,000,000.00.

The legal proceedings brought to light a series of complex personal and financial disputes. The court found that the property in question had been acquired through means deemed unlawful, leading to the mandate for its immediate return to the claimant.

Public interest in the case has been further heightened by allegations surrounding the circumstances of the couple’s separation. Reports presented during the proceedings suggested that the legal dispute intensified following the alleged deportation of Chief Jolapamo back to Nigeria, a move that preceded the litigation over the contested assets.

The total financial liability placed on Ms. Otti exceeds ₦473 million, marking one of the more significant civil judgments in recent Lagos judicial history involving former domestic partners. Legal analysts suggest the verdict reinforces strict adherence to property rights and the legal scrutiny of asset transfers within such relationships.

“The court’s order is a clear directive on the restoration of assets acquired through unlawful channels,” noted a legal observer following the session.

As of the time of reporting, it remains unclear whether Ms. Otti intends to file an appeal against the High Court’s ruling. Representatives for Chief Jolapamo have expressed satisfaction with the judgment, describing it as a necessary step in the recovery of his rightfully owned property and funds.