The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has defended its record-breaking recovery of 753 duplexes and other apartments in Abuja, amid criticism from activist Omowole Sowore.
The EFCC said it had secured the final forfeiture of the estate, valued at hundreds of millions of naira, to the Federal Government of Nigeria. The commission described the recovery as a “landmark achievement” and expressed appreciation for the support of reform-minded Nigerians.
However, the EFCC took umbrage with Sowore’s criticism, describing his allegations of a cover-up as “unacceptable and grossly un-charitable”. The commission explained that the forfeiture proceedings were conducted in line with the Advance Fee Fraud Act, which allows for civil proceedings against properties rather than individuals. The EFCC also clarified that the company initially linked to the estate had denied ownership, prompting the commission to approach the court for a final forfeiture order. Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie of the Federal Capital Territory High Court granted the order on Monday, December 2, 2024. The EFCC expressed surprise that Sowore was not concerned about the systemic failures that allowed the corrupt acquisition of the estate. The commission reiterated its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s financial space and vowed to continue its investigation into the matter.
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