EFCC Seizes Massive 753-Duplex Estate Allegedly Linked to Former CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has announced the final forfeiture of a sprawling estate in Abuja, reportedly linked to former Central Bank Governor Godwin Emefiele. The estate, consisting of 753 duplexes and other apartments, is the largest asset seizure in the EFCC’s history.
Court Ruling
The Federal High Court, presided over by Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie, ruled on Monday, December 2, 2024, that the estate, located on Plot 109 Cadastral Zone C09 in Lokogoma District, be permanently forfeited to the federal government.
In his ruling, Justice Onwuegbuzie stated:
“The respondent has not shown cause as to why he should not lose the property, which has been reasonably suspected to have been acquired with proceeds of unlawful activities. The property is hereby finally forfeited to the federal government.”
The ruling followed an interim forfeiture order issued on November 1, 2024.
EFCC Statement
The EFCC emphasized the significance of the forfeiture, stating:
“This is the single largest asset recovery by the EFCC since its inception in 2003. The forfeiture is pursuant to the EFCC’s mandate of ensuring that corrupt individuals do not enjoy the proceeds of their unlawful activities. The Commission relied on Section 17 of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006, and Section 44 (2) B of the 1999 Constitution to secure the ruling.”
The Commission noted that the estate spans 150,500 square meters and was acquired using suspected proceeds of fraud.
Connection to Emefiele
Although the EFCC did not directly name Emefiele in its statement, former presidential aspirant Omoyele Sowore alleged that the seized estate belonged to the embattled ex-CBN governor. In a post on social media, Sowore claimed:
“The 753 duplexes forfeited by an FCT Court in Apo belong to Muhammadu Buhari’s CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele. He reportedly built this estate and more with kickbacks. But the question is why the EFCC opted to cover up his identity.”
Emefiele’s Legal Troubles
Emefiele is currently facing multiple charges of corruption, including allegations related to the controversial naira redesign policy. The forfeiture of the estate adds another layer to the legal battles confronting the former apex bank chief.
Public Reactions
The news of the forfeiture has sparked outrage and calls for accountability, with many Nigerians demanding transparency in handling the proceeds of the seized property. Critics have also raised concerns over the EFCC’s alleged reluctance to openly name Emefiele in connection with the case.
Further investigations are ongoing.
