Family of Late Ex-SGF Saidu Idris in Property Dispute, Children Allege Denial of Inheritance

A bitter inheritance dispute has erupted in the family of the late former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Alhaji Saidu Gidado Idris, with some of his children claiming they have been denied access to their father’s estate.

Speaking on behalf of his siblings, one of Idris’ sons, Saidu, told journalists that since their father’s passing in 2017, they have been prevented from entering his Abuja residence to take inventory of belongings in line with Islamic practice.

“We, the seven siblings from our late mother’s side, have not been allowed into our father’s room to see his Will or property documents. This is contrary to Islamic injunctions,” he alleged.

Saidu explained that a court had awarded their stepmother ownership of Idris’ Abuja residence at No. 2 Mambilla Street, Aso Drive, while he and his siblings were allocated a property at No. 7 Coronation Crescent, Kaduna, as well as two houses in Hanwa GRA, Zaria.

Although the siblings initially appealed the judgment, they later withdrew it. The same ruling, according to him, directed that they be paid ₦181,292,455 to balance the value of the properties.

“For more than two years now, the payment has not been made. Each time the case comes up in court, it is adjourned without progress on the distribution of other properties,” Saidu said.

He further alleged that the two Zaria houses allocated to them were subsequently sold without their knowledge. While a Kaduna court reportedly ruled in 2020 that compensation should be paid, he said the directive remains unimplemented.

“Our father was a just and gentle man. We believe he left a Will, but we have not been given access to it. We want Nigerians to know the truth because this situation is painful. We seek prayers, sympathy, and intervention,” Saidu added.

The late Idris, who died in 2017, is survived by 12 children and one wife. His family comprised three wives—one deceased, one divorced, and the surviving widow. As of press time, efforts to obtain her reaction were unsuccessful.

Opinion Nigeria News