FG takes over Ekweremadu’s 40 properties And secures Interim Forfeiture Order

FG Takes Over Ekweremadu’s 40 Properties After Court Grants Interim Forfeiture Order

In a significant legal development, the Federal Government of Nigeria has secured an interim forfeiture order against Senator Ike Ekweremadu, the former Deputy Senate President, involving 40 landed properties across multiple countries.

Court Grants Interim Forfeiture in Abuja

On Friday, 4th November, 2022, the Federal High Court in Abuja ruled in favor of the FG’s application, granting an interim forfeiture order for the assets linked to Senator Ekweremadu, currently under investigation.

The forfeiture order includes a widespread of real estate assets spanning various continents, showcasing the scale of the case.

Property Breakdown | A Global Trail

The interim order covers properties located in:

Enugu: 10 properties
Federal Capital Territory (Abuja) | 15 properties
Dubai (UAE): 9 properties
United States of America: 3 properties
United Kingdom: properties
Lagos: 1 property

These assets, according to the court filing, are now under government watch, pending the conclusion of the investigation and further judicial proceedings.

How Did It Get to This Point?

Ekweremadu, who is facing separate legal troubles internationally, has been on the radar of the Nigerian anti-graft agencies.

The interim forfeiture is believed to be part of ongoing efforts to trace suspected illicit wealth and ensure transparency and accountability in public service.

The case is still under judicial review, and the court has instructed that interested parties should come forward to present reasons why the assets should not be permanently forfeited to the federal government.

Public and Legal Reactions

This development has sparked mixed reactions across the country.

Some see it as a bold move against corruption, while others argue it might be politically motivated.

Legal analysts are watching closely to see how the case unfolds, especially with international elements involved, given the presence of assets in the UK, the US, and the UAE.

Next Steps in the Legal Process

The court has scheduled a date for the hearing on the motion for final forfeiture, where Ekweremadu’s legal team is expected to challenge the decision and provide evidence of legitimate ownership.

Until then, the properties remain under interim government control.

Summary

40 properties linked to Senator Ike Ekweremadu have been temporarily seized.
The Federal High Court in Abuja issued the order following a request by federal authorities.
Properties span across Nigeria, the UAE, the UK, and the US.
The case is ongoing, with future hearings expected to determine the final forfeiture status.