The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has responded to criticism from activist Omoyele Sowore and his allies over its record-breaking recovery of 753 duplexes and other apartments on Plot 109, Cadastral Zone C09, Lokogoma District, Abuja.
In a statement released by its Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, the EFCC described the allegations of a cover-up surrounding the estate’s forfeiture as “uncharitable and illogical.”
The commission explained that the forfeiture process adhered to Section 17 of the Advance Fee Fraud Act, which permits action against property rather than individuals in cases of unclaimed assets.
According to the EFCC, its investigations flagged a company linked to the estate, but the firm denied ownership following public notices in leading national newspapers.
Based on this, the EFCC secured a court order for the final forfeiture of the estate, which was granted on December 2, 2024, by Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie of the Federal Capital Territory High Court.
“The proceedings that yielded this landmark forfeiture were the result of actionable intelligence,” the statement read.
“It is disappointing that instead of recognising this effort, citizen Sowore has chosen to focus on baseless accusations while ignoring the systemic failures that allowed such a corrupt act to occur.”
The EFCC further clarified that its criminal investigation into the matter is ongoing, and it would be premature to disclose identities of individuals not directly tied to the estate’s title documents.
“The EFCC remains committed to a no-sacred-cow approach and will not be distracted by unfounded criticism,” the statement added.
The commission urged Nigerians to support its fight against corruption and focus on addressing systemic weaknesses that enable large-scale fraud.
It reaffirmed its dedication to safeguarding the nation’s financial systems against manipulation and organised criminal activities.
This development underscores the EFCC’s resolve to tackle corruption while highlighting the complexities of asset recovery in Nigeria’s justice system.
