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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has responded to criticisms, particularly from activist Omoyele Sowore, regarding its recent recovery of 753 duplexes and other apartments in Plot 109, Cadastral Zone C09, Lokogoma District, Abuja.
The commission described Sowore’s remarks as uncharitable and a misrepresentation of its efforts.
The EFCC, in a statement, emphasized that the forfeiture process adhered to Section 17 of the Advance Fee Fraud Act, which permits civil proceedings targeting property rather than individuals, especially in cases of unclaimed assets.
The commission clarified that the implicated company denied ownership of the estate, prompting the EFCC to seek a court order for final forfeiture.
On December 2, Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie of the Federal Capital Territory High Court granted the forfeiture request.
The commission noted that its actions were based on actionable intelligence and a transparent legal process.
It rebuked Sowore’s allegations of a cover-up, asserting that criminal investigations into the estate’s ownership are ongoing.
Naming individuals prematurely, the EFCC argued, would be unprofessional and could undermine the investigation.
“The expectation of the EFCC from citizen Sowore is a patriotic appreciation of its efforts in securing such a landmark forfeiture,” the statement read.
It urged Nigerians to focus on addressing systemic lapses that enable large-scale corruption.
The EFCC reaffirmed its commitment to combating financial crimes and reiterated its “no-sacred-cow” policy in pursuing justice, pledging to safeguard Nigeria’s financial landscape.