EFCC Secures Forfeiture of 753-Duplex Estate in Abuja

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has successfully obtained the final forfeiture of a vast estate in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. This marks a significant milestone for the agency in its efforts to combat corruption. The estate, covering 150,500 square meters and comprising 753 duplexes and apartments, is the largest single asset seized by the EFCC since its establishment in 2003.

Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie of the FCT High Court granted the forfeiture order following a request by the EFCC. Although the identity of the individual who forfeited the property was not disclosed, EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale confirmed that the estate belonged to a “former senior government official” currently under investigation.

The process leading to the final forfeiture began with an interim forfeiture order issued by the same judge on November 1, 2024. Oyewale explained that the forfeiture was a crucial step in removing the ill-gotten gains of the accused individual.

ALSO READ: EFCC Grills Former Delta Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa

The EFCC based its legal action on Section 17 of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act No. 14 of 2006 and Section 44 (2) B of the 1999 Constitution. The court ruled that the defendant failed to provide sufficient reasons for retaining the property.

EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede noted that the asset recovery is a vital component of the agency’s fight against corruption and financial crimes, serving as a powerful deterrent to fraudulent and corrupt activities. The EFCC has reiterated its commitment to ensuring accountability and justice through the recovery of stolen assets.