Two Docked In Warri Over Alleged Illegal ‘Deve’ Demand
Arraignment Over Alleged Illegal Levy
TWO men have been arraigned before a Magistrate Court in Warri, Delta State, over allegations of unlawfully demanding a development levy, locally referred to as “deve,” from a property developer.
The suspects, identified as Irikefe Ajueyitsi and Abubakar Nasiru, were brought before Chief Magistrate E. M. Sowho at Magistrate Court One on Monday 13 April 2026. They are facing a two-count charge bordering on illegal demand and conduct likely to cause a breach of peace.
Details of the Allegations
Prosecuting counsel, ASP Dicko Wakama, told the court that the defendants, alongside other accomplices still at large, allegedly committed the offence on 12 March 2026, at 3rd Marine Quarter Road, Warri.
According to the prosecution, the accused persons demanded payment of “deve” from Pastor Fred Aghedo, a property developer, as a condition for continuing construction work on his site.
The prosecution argued that the act contravenes provisions of the Delta State Public and Private Properties Protection Law, 2018, which criminalises unauthorised levies on property owners and developers.
Additional Charge: Breach of Peace
Beyond the alleged illegal demand, the defendants were also accused of engaging in behaviour capable of causing a breach of public peace.
The prosecution stated that the suspects created a nuisance at the construction site, thereby disrupting lawful activities. This charge is said to fall under Section 249(d) of the Criminal Code Laws of Delta State.
Defence and Court Ruling
Both defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges when they were read in court.
In her ruling, Chief Magistrate Sowho granted bail to the accused persons, allowing them temporary freedom pending trial. The case was subsequently adjourned to 20 May 2026, for hearing.
Complainant’s Account
Narrating his experience, Pastor Aghedo told the court that the suspects allegedly halted his land development activities by blocking access to the site.
He explained that a tractor hired for the project was stopped, with the accused insisting that work could not proceed unless the demanded “deve” was paid.
Following the incident, he filed a formal complaint with the police, leading to the arrest and prosecution of the suspects.
Wider Crackdown on Illegal Levies
The case comes amid intensified efforts by the Delta State Government to curb illegal levies imposed on developers.
Authorities have reiterated that the collection of “deve” without legal backing is a criminal offence, warning that perpetrators will be arrested and prosecuted.
The crackdown is aimed at protecting investors and ensuring a more secure and predictable environment for property development in the state.
