EFCC secures permanent forfeiture of property linked to Ex-Minister

By Reporter

The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the permanent forfeiture of a property linked to former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, who is serving a 75-year prison sentence for corruption and money laundering.

In a ruling, Justice James Omotosho held that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had established that Walijam Apartments, located on Plot 435, Lobito Crescent, Wuse 2, Abuja, was acquired with proceeds of unlawful activities. The court consequently ordered its permanent forfeiture to the Federal Government.

The judge also granted an interim forfeiture order on four other properties allegedly linked to the former minister. The properties are Bloom Luxury Suites Nigeria Limited on Amana Crescent, New Estate, Unguwan Rimi, Kaduna State; a mansion at No. 11 Misratah Street, Wuse 2, Abuja; another property at No. 13 Misratah Street, Wuse 2, Abuja; and A.U.A Plaza on Plot 734, Kade Street, Wuse 2, Abuja.

Justice Omotosho directed the EFCC to publish the interim forfeiture order in a national newspaper within seven days to allow any interested parties to appear before the court and show cause why the four properties should not be permanently forfeited to the Federal Government.

The interim forfeiture order will remain in effect pending the determination of any claims by persons with an interest in the affected properties.