The House of Representatives has received a petition seeking a review of changes made to the corporate records of Jonah Capital Nigeria Ltd and Houses for Africa Nigeria Ltd by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).
The petition, submitted on behalf of the two companies, raises concerns over alterations to their filings at the CAC and calls for the National Assembly to examine the circumstances surrounding the changes.
It was presented during plenary by Hon. Muktar Tolani Shagaya, who represents Ilorin West Federal Constituency of Kwara State. The session was presided over by the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, who granted leave for the petition to be laid before the House.
According to the petitioners, the disputed changes relate to shareholding structure, directorship and the status of certain corporate filings. They contend that the amendments were made while ownership and control issues involving the companies were already before the courts and subject to review by relevant authorities.
The matter is connected to a long-running dispute over interests in the River Park Estate, a major real estate development in Abuja, involving competing claims among investors and associated entities.
In a statement referenced in the petition, Kojo Ansah Mensah, chief executive of Jonah Capital Nigeria Ltd, said the companies had earlier written to regulatory and law enforcement authorities over the dispute and had asked that no changes be made to their records pending the outcome of ongoing processes. He maintained that the companies were not given fair hearing before the disputed filings were effected.
The petitioners also allege that following the changes at the CAC, individuals recognised as directors in the updated records took steps to notify banks and other institutions of a change in control of the companies. They argue that these actions have disrupted operations and worsened the dispute.
Separately, Houses for Africa Nigeria Ltd has issued statements distancing itself from claims by individuals it says are not authorised to speak or act on its behalf. The company insists that its current directors and shareholding structure are as reflected in earlier filings and internal resolutions, and that any contrary claims are the subject of ongoing legal processes.
The companies have since written to the National Assembly and the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation, requesting intervention and clarification on the role of the CAC in disputes that are already before the courts.
With the petition now formally before the House, it is expected to be referred to the appropriate committee for consideration. Observers say the outcome could have broader implications for corporate regulation, investor confidence and the handling of contested filings by regulatory agencies.