Udu, Delta State – Four residents of the DSC Steel Town Residential Quarters in Udu Local Government Area have each been sentenced to 27 months in prison for obstructing a lawful eviction process ordered by the court. The quarters, now managed by Premium Steel and Mines Limited (PSML), are meant for staff, but many current occupants are no longer employees — and some have refused to pay rent.
The convicted individuals — Darlington Erhiejakpor, Dr. David Emomotimi, Alex Oyibo, and Jemierieyigbe Oluwoni — were found guilty by His Worship Dortie A.K.E, Chief Magistrate Grade II, in a ruling delivered on Friday, May 30, 2025, at the Magistrate Court in Otor-Udu, Delta State.
What Led to the Sentencing?
The issue began after PSML, which owns and manages the estate, approached the Otor-Udu Area Customary Court for legal permission to evict residents who refused to pay rent. The court granted the eviction order. However, when court officials went to enforce it, some residents reportedly resisted them and blocked the process.
This led to criminal charges being filed against them under Charge Number MUD/43c/2024. The prosecution accused the defendants of conspiring, obstructing court officers, and causing a breach of public peace.
Details of the Sentencing
The court ruled that the four men were guilty of all charges and handed down the following punishments:
- Count 1: Conspiracy to commit misdemeanor — 3 months in prison, with an option of a fine.
- Count 2: Obstructing court officials — 1 year in prison, with an option of a fine.
- Count 3: Conduct likely to cause a breach of peace — 1 year in prison, also with an option of a fine.
Although the total sentence adds up to 27 months, the magistrate ruled that the jail terms will run at the same time, meaning they will serve only one year in prison. However, the fines are cumulative, meaning each fine must be paid separately if they wish to avoid jail.
Other individuals involved in the incident are still at large.
Company Reacts
A senior staff member of PSML, who asked not to be named, expressed satisfaction with the judgment. “This should serve as a warning. We urge all residents to respect the rules and pay their rent. PSML is committed to managing the estate legally and responsibly,” the staff member said.
Why This Matters
The case highlights growing tensions over property rights and tenancy laws in company-owned estates across Nigeria. Legal experts say the judgment reinforces the principle that court orders must be obeyed, and tenants must follow the terms of their housing agreements.
Residents of company quarters, especially those who are not staff, are reminded to stay within the law, and seek legal advice rather than taking matters into their own hands.
