The Supreme Court has ordered the final forfeiture of several high-value properties and assets linked to former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele, bringing to an end a prolonged legal battle over their ownership.
In a unanimous judgment delivered by a five-member panel led by Justice Ibrahim Saulawa, the apex court overturned the earlier decision of the Court of Appeal, which had nullified the forfeiture order and directed that the matter be retried.
The ruling restores the decision of the Federal High Court, which had ordered the permanent forfeiture of the assets to the Federal Government following an application by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The forfeited assets include seven luxury properties as well as over $2 million previously linked to the former CBN governor during investigations into alleged proceeds of unlawful activities.
The Supreme Court held that the appeal filed by the anti-graft agency had merit and set aside the judgment of the Court of Appeal, effectively affirming the permanent forfeiture of the properties and funds.
The decision marks a significant legal victory for the EFCC in its ongoing efforts to recover assets suspected to have been acquired through unlawful means.
The judgment also brings finality to one of the major legal disputes involving Emefiele since his exit from office as Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria.
Stay informed and ahead of the curve! Follow The National Concord Blog Newsletter for real-time updates, breaking news, and exclusive content. Don't miss a headline – join now below!
