Emmanuel OchayiEFCC Claims Largest Asset Recovery in Its History
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has taken possession of a massive estate in Abuja linked to former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele. The estate, comprising 753 duplexes, was officially forfeited to the Nigerian government following a Federal High Court ruling on Monday.
Human rights activist and #RevolutionNow convener Omoyele Sowore identified Emefiele as the owner of the estate in a series of posts on his verified social media account.
Join our WhatsApp Channel“I just heard from the grapevine that the 753 duplexes forfeited by an FCT court in Apo belong to Muhammadu Buhari’s CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele,” Sowore alleged.
The EFCC, in its statement, confirmed that the estate represents the single largest asset recovery in its 21-year history.
Details of the Forfeiture
The forfeited property, located in Lokogoma District, Abuja, spans 150,500 square meters and contains 753 duplexes and apartments. Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie ordered the final forfeiture, citing the property’s acquisition through unlawful means.
According to the EFCC, the ruling was based on provisions in the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act and the Nigerian Constitution.
Justice Onwuegbuzie ruled that the respondent “failed to show cause as to why the property should not be forfeited,” adding, “It has been reasonably suspected to have been acquired with proceeds of unlawful activities.”
READ ALSO: Governors’ Move Against EFCC And The Question of Genuine Intention
Sowore Criticises EFCC
Sowore accused the EFCC of protecting high-profile individuals while targeting smaller offenders.
“The @officialEFCC is now doing PR for thieves,” he wrote. “They seized this large estate with 753 duplexes from a single individual in Abuja but can’t mention his or her name. If it is Yahoo boys, they will line up laptops and Nokia phones and publish their photos globally even before trial.”
He further criticised the double standards in how the EFCC publicises its cases.
Emefiele’s Ongoing Legal Battles
Emefiele is currently standing trial on multiple corruption charges, including allegations related to the controversial naira redesign policy. The Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama has adjourned the case to December 4, 2024, and January 21, 2025, for further proceedings.
The former CBN governor has faced scrutiny since his suspension and subsequent detention earlier this year, with various properties and assets linked to him under investigation by the EFCC.
Activist’s Claims Raise Questions
Sowore highlighted the broader implications of corruption in housing policy, stating, “They tell citizens the government has no business building houses, yet a ‘top brass’ stole and built 753 duplexes for himself.”
The activist’s comments have sparked public debate on the role of government agencies in holding influential figures accountable.
EFCC Reiterates Commitment
The EFCC defended its actions, stating that the forfeiture aligns with its mission to ensure that proceeds of corruption are not enjoyed by offenders.
“The Commission’s efforts are in line with Section 17 of the Advance Fee Fraud Act and Section 44 (2)(b) of the Nigerian Constitution,” the agency said in a statement.
The case underscores ongoing challenges in tackling corruption and ensuring transparency in asset recovery efforts.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
