Controversy Trails EFCC’s Largest Asset Recovery Amid Allegations Against Godwin Emefiele
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) announced on Monday, December 2, 2024, the final forfeiture of a massive estate in Lokogoma, Abuja, comprising 753 duplexes and spanning 150,500 square meters. This property, touted as the single largest asset recovery in the EFCC’s history, was seized from an unnamed former government official. However, the development has become controversial, especially as more information regarding the estate’s ownership has been unveiled.
Human rights activist and #RevolutionNow convener Omoyele Sowore has pulled the carpet, alleging that the estate belongs to the former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Godwin Emefiele. Taking to his verified Twitter account, Sowore lambasted the EFCC for its refusal to name the individual behind the forfeiture. “What is the name of the ‘former top brass’ with 753 duplexes seized by the EFCC in Abuja?” he questioned. “The @officialEFCC is now doing PR for thieves.”
Sowore’s criticism digs into what many perceive as double standards in the EFCC’s modus operandi. He highlighted how the agency has formed a habit of naming and parading suspected internet fraudsters and taking the public through items such as laptops and phones seized from the suspects before trial. “If it is Yahoo boys, they will line laptops and Nokia phones in front of them and send their photos globally. The same EFCC is now AFRAID of BIG Thieves!” Sowore stated.
In its official statement, the EFCC affirmed that it would continue to harness asset recovery as an effective tool against economic and other forms of corruption. The commission claimed that its action followed sections of the Advance Fee Fraud Act and section 15 of the Constitution of Nigeria. In the case, the Honorable Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie stated that the respondent did not adduce materials that could convince the court that the estate was acquired legally. However, the absence of the suspect’s name has raised questions about the level of transparency at the agency.
Social media has seen Nigerians express disappointment over the EFCC’s decision to withhold the suspect’s name. Many aligned with Sowore’s stance, calling for accountability. “Why can’t the EFCC name the individual behind this massive estate? Are they protecting someone?” asked a Twitter user.
These allegations come when Emefiele is facing legal cases after being suspended from his position this year. While supporters refer to Sowere’s allegations as politically instigated, critics say that the silence from the EFCC adds to the speculation.
This unprecedented forfeiture triggers important questions. Who truly owns this estate, valued in billions of naira? Why is the EFCC reluctant to name the individual behind such a colossal asset? And what does this mean for the fight against corruption in Nigeria? As the EFCC remains tight-lipped and allegations swirl, Nigerians wonder, could this be the beginning of another high-profile cover-up?
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