The Local Government Commission of Inquiry investigated a land deal involving Banjul City Council (BCC) and businessman Chabell Elhajj, raising concerns about potential fraud.
Elhajj leased land from BCC for D2 million and sold it to EMK Stores for approximately D15 million, claiming that Banjul Mayor Rohey Malick Lowe had encouraged the purchase.
Under questioning, Elhajj and former BCC CEO Mustapha Batchily provided conflicting testimonies regarding the lease agreement and the transfer to EMK Stores.
Elhajj initially stated he paid BCC before the Nigerian company showed interest, but later suggested he made the payment after agreeing with EMK Stores.
Counsel Patrick Gomez highlighted the lack of documentation to support Elhajj’s claims, suggesting fraudulent intent.
Elhajj denied any wrongdoing, asserting the transaction was legitimate and emphasizing that informal agreements are standard in business.
Counsel Gomez criticized the council’s lack of due diligence, indicating that the deal was suspicious from the outset.
