By Jabiru Hassan, Kano
The Centre for Anti-Corruption and Open Leadership (CACOL) has commended the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for its relentless efforts in combating corruption, following its recent success in securing the forfeiture of assets linked to illicit activities.
In a release issued by CACOL and signed by Tola Oresanwo, the organization’s Director of Administration and Programs, on behalf of its Chairman, Mr. Debo Adeniran, he praised the EFCC for its major milestone, stating:
“It would be recalled that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on Monday announced its largest asset recovery since its establishment. The recovered asset, owned by a former high-ranking government official, is an estate in the Federal Capital Territory. The estate spans 150,500 square meters and consists of 753 units of duplexes and other apartments, located on Plot 109, Cadastral Zone C09, Lokogoma District, Abuja. The recovery followed a ruling delivered on December 2, 2024, by Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie, who had earlier granted an interim forfeiture order on November 1, 2024.”
The confiscation of assets acquired through illegal means serves as a powerful deterrent to corrupt practices and reaffirms Nigeria’s commitment to fighting financial crimes. CACOL emphasized that this decision highlights the effectiveness of collaboration between law enforcement and the judiciary in safeguarding public resources and ensuring that the proceeds of corruption are not enjoyed by any individual.
CACOL also raised concerns about how such a large estate could be acquired without proper scrutiny. “Where were the regulators when this land was acquired? Did the developer report the deal to the Special Control Unit against Money Laundering (SCUML)? If so, was any due diligence conducted?” the statement queried. CACOL pointed out that similar properties, especially in Abuja and Lagos, should have been investigated through the powers granted to regulatory agencies, urging more proactive efforts to prevent such abuses.
While applauding the EFCC for its professionalism, CACOL expressed concern over the fact that the name of the individual involved had not been made public. “The name of the culprit should be exposed to the public, who are the true victims of the diversion of their resources to acquire such property,” CACOL said.
The organization also commended the judiciary for its unbiased and timely decision, which underscores its crucial role as a pillar of justice in Nigeria. The ruling sends a strong message that the law is supreme and that anyone engaged in financial crimes will face the consequences.
In closing, CACOL expressed solidarity with the EFCC and other anti-corruption agencies, reaffirming its commitment to a Nigeria free from corruption. The organization called on Nigerians to support these efforts by promoting transparency, reporting suspicious activities, and ensuring accountability in both public and private sectors.
“Together, we can build a nation where integrity thrives, public resources are protected, and justice prevails,” CACOL concluded.
