The EFCC secured its largest asset recovery with the confiscation of 753 duplexes in Abuja, allegedly owned by former CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele. Activist Omoyele Sowore accused the EFCC of shielding elites while publicizing smaller offenders. The estate, valued significantly, was forfeited after a Federal High Court ruling.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has secured its largest asset recovery, confiscating 753 duplexes and apartments in Abuja's Lokogoma District. The estate, reportedly tied to former Central Bank of Nigeria Governor Godwin Emefiele, was forfeited to the Federal Government after a Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court ruling.
Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore alleged via social media that Emefiele owns the seized estate. He criticized the EFCC for withholding the owner's identity, contrasting it with the agency's practice of publicly naming cybercrime suspects.
Emefiele is already facing corruption charges, including those tied to the naira redesign policy. Justice Maryann Anenih adjourned his trial to continue in early 2025.
The EFCC, defending its action, stated that the recovery aligns with its policy of ensuring the corrupt do not profit from illicit proceeds. The agency emphasized that asset recovery is central to its strategy to combat graft, weakening suspects' ability to obstruct justice.
Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie ordered the estate's forfeiture, citing evidence it was acquired with illicit funds. Sowore expressed dissatisfaction with the EFCC’s approach, accusing the agency of protecting high-profile figures while readily exposing minor offenders.
This recovery, on a 150,500-square-meter plot, underscores EFCC's ongoing commitment to reclaiming stolen assets. It remains to be seen how this high-profile case will unfold as public attention intensifies.