Ilorin, Kwara State
The heirs and beneficiaries of the late His Royal Highness Alhaji (Dr.) Zulkarnaini Gambari Mohammed, the 9th Emir of Ilorin, have filed a formal petition to the Kwara State Police Command over allegations of unauthorised development and fraudulent transactions involving one of the estate’s properties located along Murtala Mohammed Way, Ilorin, Kwara State.
The petition, dated 22 October 2025, was submitted to the Commissioner of Police, Kwara State, by the lawful heirs of the late Emir’s estate. It calls for urgent investigation into what the family describes as unlawful property dealings and breach of trust by one of the appointed estate administrators.
Background
Following the passing of the late Emir in February 1992, four administrators were appointed to jointly manage and safeguard the estate’s properties in trust for all heirs and beneficiaries.
These administrators include:
- Ahmed Bolakale Gambari
- Zeinab Ayobola Zubair
- Asmau Funmilayo Buhari
- Hassia Wuraola Gambari
According to the petition, Mr. Ahmed Bolakale Gambari, one of the administrators, is alleged to have acted unilaterally and entered into property development and lease agreements with an unidentified developer concerning the estate’s property along Murtala Mohammed Way — without the knowledge, consent, or written approval of the other administrators or lawful heirs.
The family claims that no documentation, revenue, or disclosure regarding the transaction has been provided, and that the identity of the developer remains unknown.
Allegations and Legal Concerns
In the petition, the heirs allege that the unilateral actions constitute a breach of fiduciary duty, criminal misappropriation, and fraudulent conversion of estate property, in violation of provisions of the Criminal Code Act and the Administration of Estates Law.
They further expressed concern that proceeds from the unauthorized dealings may have been diverted for personal gain, describing the incident as a serious case of financial misconduct requiring immediate police intervention.
Requests to the Police Command
The heirs and beneficiaries have requested that the Kwara State Police Command:
- Launch a comprehensive criminal investigation into the unauthorized development and identify all parties involved, including any developers and financial beneficiaries.
- Invite all four administrators for formal questioning and written statements regarding their respective roles in the management of the estate.
- Identify and trace any developers, financial transactions, or accounts linked to the disputed property.
- Issue a stop-work and preservation order on all ongoing development, sale, or lease of the property until investigations are concluded.
- Ensure the protection and restoration of the property and all proceeds to the lawful control of the family.
The petition includes reference documents such as the appointment records of the four administrators, title papers for the property, photographs of ongoing development, and written statements confirming non-consent from other heirs.
Property Details
- Property Type: Family estate property
- Location: Murtala Mohammed Way, Ilorin, Kwara State
- Ownership: Estate of the Late HRH Alhaji (Dr.) Zulkarnaini Gambari Mohammed
- Administrator Implicated: Mr. Ahmed Bolakale Gambari
- Current Status: Under unauthorized development by unidentified persons
Family’s Appeal for Justice
In closing, the petition urges the Kwara State Police Command to treat the matter with “urgency and seriousness,” citing the need to protect the legacy and integrity of the estate of a revered traditional ruler.
“We urge the Police to uphold justice, integrity, and accountability in safeguarding the estate of our late father,” the petition reads in part.
The heirs reaffirmed their commitment to fully cooperate with law enforcement and provide any necessary evidence or documentation to aid the investigation.
About the Late Emir
His Royal Highness Alhaji (Dr.) Zulkarnaini Gambari Mohammed (1914–1992) was the 9th Emir of Ilorin, serving from 1959 until his passing in 1992. A respected leader, scholar, and statesman, he was known for his wisdom, commitment to justice, and deep service to the Ilorin community.
His legacy continues to inspire the family’s pursuit of transparency and accountability in preserving his estate.
Ongoing Proceedings
This petition marks the latest development in the ongoing legal and administrative actions concerning the management of the late Emir’s estate, currently under judicial review at the Kwara State High Court.
Further verified updates will be published here as the case progresses and official responses emerge.
Source:
Petition submitted to the Commissioner of Police, Kwara State Police Command, Ilorin — dated 22 October 2025.PETITION KWARA STATE POLICE
