The Federal Government has announced plans to sell a 753-unit housing estate forfeited by former Central Bank of Nigeria Governor Godwin Emefiele, as part of assets recovered through the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Development confirmed on Tuesday that it had taken possession of the Abuja property following an official handover by the EFCC.
“The Ministry of Housing and Urban Development has taken delivery of the 753 housing units in Abuja, recovered from the former Central Bank Governor, Godwin Emefiele, by the EFCC,” said Salisu Haiba, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Ministry, in a statement.
Housing Minister Arc. Ahmed Dangiwa praised the EFCC’s anti-corruption efforts, stating: “This marks a significant milestone in our collective determination to ensure that recovered assets are put to productive use in ways that directly benefit the Nigerian people.”
Dangiwa revealed plans for a joint assessment of the estate with the EFCC: “We intend to carry out thorough integrity and structural assessments on all buildings and associated infrastructure to confirm their safety and suitability for habitation.”
The minister outlined the sales process, noting: “For the public sale component, we will adopt a transparent and competitive process. This will include a nationwide advertisement and the use of the Renewed Hope Portal where interested Nigerians can submit their Expressions of Interest.”
EFCC Chairman Olanipekun Olukoyede emphasized the symbolic importance of the handover: “It is important for us to demonstrate to Nigerians that whatever proceeds of crime we recover will be applied transparently and in a manner that benefits the public. We will not allow looted assets to be looted again.”
Emefiele is currently facing trial for multiple financial crimes. The property disposal forms part of the government’s asset recovery and utilization program under President Tinubu’s administration.