A Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, has issued an interim forfeiture order concerning a sum of ₦31 million and four residential properties suspected to be linked to unlawful financial activities.
The ruling, delivered on May 8, 2025, by Justice Alexander Owoeye, came in response to an ex-parte application filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) through its Lagos Zonal Directorate 1.
The EFCC’s legal representative, C. C. Okezie, submitted the motion, which was backed by an eight-paragraph affidavit sworn by Yusuf Hassan, an investigator attached to the Commission. According to the EFCC, preliminary investigations indicate that the assets in question were likely acquired through proceeds from illicit dealings allegedly connected to one Obiajulu Emmanuel.
During the court session, Okezie argued that the properties and cash were “reasonably suspected” to have originated from criminal activity, and requested the court to grant temporary possession to the government pending further legal proceedings.
After reviewing the affidavit and supporting documentation, Justice Owoeye approved the EFCC’s request, stating that the evidence presented had satisfied the requirements for granting the interim forfeiture.
“The application is granted as prayed,” the judge declared, adding that the EFCC must now publicize the forfeiture order in a national daily newspaper, giving any interested individuals the opportunity to appear in court and challenge the forfeiture.
The properties in question include multiple residential units across Lagos, ranging from four-bedroom and three-bedroom terrace duplexes to one- and two-bedroom apartments, all believed to have been purchased with funds derived from unlawful activities.
The final determination on whether the assets will be permanently forfeited to the Federal Government will depend on any subsequent claims or defenses presented by third parties.
The case is part of the EFCC’s broader effort to recover assets suspected to have been obtained through corruption, fraud, or other economic crimes.
