In a significant development, the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, has granted an interim forfeiture order for properties valued at N11.14 billion.
These properties are allegedly connected to Godwin Emefiele, the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) who is currently facing multiple criminal trials.
The court order was issued by Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke following a motion filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and argued by their counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo.
It is suspected that Emefiele acquired these high-value properties using fraudulent means.
The properties are primarily located in prestigious areas of Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory.
The EFCC has identified individuals, including a former CBN staff member and two current employees, who are believed to have assisted Emefiele in his alleged fraudulent activities.
To ensure transparency and provide an opportunity for any interested parties to come forward, Justice Aneke has ordered the publication of the forfeiture order in ThisDay newspaper.
Additionally, the court has set a date for the hearing of the motion for final forfeiture, which will take place on June 21.
It should be noted that a separate interim forfeiture order of $1,426,175.14 linked to Emefiele was previously issued by Justice Ayokunle Faji of the Federal High Court in Lagos.
Justice Faji has directed the EFCC to publish the interim forfeiture order in a national newspaper, giving individuals a 14-day period to present their case if they wish to claim the funds.
The EFCC, represented by counsel Bilikisu Buhari-Bala, has stated that the funds are suspected to be proceeds from Emefiele’s illicit activities.
The legal proceedings surrounding the former CBN Governor continue, as the court system aims to uncover the truth and ensure justice is served.
