Massive Crackdown: Court Hands ₦335M, Hospital, Filling Stations To Federal Government

The Federal High Court in Abuja has granted the final forfeiture of assets worth over ₦335 million — including a hospital and five petrol stations — to the Federal Government of Nigeria.

Justice Emeka Nwite delivered the ruling on Tuesday after hearing a motion filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) through its counsel, Fadila Yusuf.

In her submission, Yusuf urged the court to convert the interim forfeiture order previously issued into a final one, stating that the EFCC had fully complied with all procedural requirements, including publication of notices.

“We respectfully ask the court to grant the final forfeiture of the properties listed in Schedules I and II to the Federal Government, having fulfilled all conditions,” she said.

Justice Nwite, after reviewing the affidavits and arguments presented, ruled in favour of the EFCC, stating:

“Having considered the application and supporting evidence, I find merit in the request. The application is granted as prayed.”

No Opposition or Claims Filed

The anti-graft agency had earlier filed a motion, referenced FHC/ABJ/CS/1058/2024, pursuant to Section 17 of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud-Related Offences Act, 2006.

According to an affidavit sworn by EFCC investigator Tahiru Ahmed, the court had initially granted an interim forfeiture order on August 13, 2024, covering all the assets listed.

In compliance with the court’s directive, the EFCC published the notice in The Punch newspaper on September 4, 2024, inviting anyone with an interest in the properties to come forward and show cause.

However, no individual or group responded to the public notice.

“The final forfeiture will serve the interest of justice, especially since no party will be adversely affected,” the affidavit added.

Properties Forfeited

Though the exact locations were not disclosed in court, the EFCC confirmed that the forfeited assets include:

• ₦335 million in cash

• A privately operated hospital

• Five petrol filling stations

• Additional assets listed in the application

Following the judgment, EFCC officials described the court’s decision as a victory for transparency and the rule of law. The Commission noted that the recovered assets would be handed over to the Federal Government to aid in public sector development and national growth.