The Federal High Court in Lagos has ordered the final forfeiture of properties valued at N12.18 billion linked to Godwin Emefiele, the former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria.
Background
An interim forfeiture order was initially issued by Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke on June 5. Following an application by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Federal High Court has now issued a final forfeiture order for properties located in the upmarket area of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) belonging to Emefiele.
Publication Requirement
The court ordered that the forfeiture be published in a national newspaper to allow any interested parties to show cause why the final order should not be made.
Details of the Order
The properties were listed by the EFCC in two schedules—A and B. The judge stated:
“Having carefully considered the application and submission of counsel, it is hereby ordered as follows: that a final forfeiture order of this honorable court is hereby made forfeiting to the Federal Government of Nigeria, properties contained in Schedule A herein which were traced and reasonably suspected to have been acquired with proceeds of unlawful activities.
“That a final forfeiture order of this Honourable Court is hereby made forfeiting to the Federal Government of Nigeria, properties contained in Schedule B herein which properties were traced to have been acquired with proceeds of unlawful activities.”
Charges Against Emefiele
Emefiele is facing multiple counts of fraud and abuse of office.
Significance
This case underscores a troubling trend in Nigerian politics where public office holders misuse their positions for personal gain. The forfeiture of Emefiele’s properties to the EFCC is a positive step and serves as a warning to other public officials considering misappropriation of public funds. It is crucial that the EFCC manages these forfeited properties transparently and ensures they benefit the nation.
Bottom Line
The final forfeiture of Godwin Emefiele’s properties highlights the ongoing battle against corruption in Nigeria. Effective management and accountability of these assets by the EFCC are essential for promoting good governance and deterring future misconduct by public officials.
