The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has achieved the final forfeiture of a vast estate in Abuja, marking a significant milestone in its anti-corruption efforts. Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court granted the order after the EFCC filed a case seeking the forfeiture.

According to a statement by Dele Oyewale, EFCC spokesperson, the property spans 150,500 square meters and comprises 753 units of duplexes and apartments. It represents the largest single asset recovered by the EFCC since its establishment in 2003. Although the owner of the estate was not explicitly identified, Oyewale revealed it belonged to a “former high-ranking government official.”

The forfeiture was preceded by an interim order issued by the same court on November 1, 2024. Oyewale noted that the EFCC invoked Section 17 of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act of 2006 and Section 44 (2) (B) of the Nigerian Constitution to secure the judgment. The Commission is currently investigating the former government official responsible for the fraudulent acquisition of the estate.

In his ruling, Justice Onwuegbuzie determined that the respondent failed to present a valid argument against the forfeiture. The EFCC emphasized that the recovery of illicitly acquired assets is critical in deterring corruption and financial crimes.

EFCC Chairperson Ola Olukoyede reiterated the importance of asset recovery in the fight against corruption, describing it as a fundamental tool to curb economic and financial crimes while discouraging fraudulent activities.