By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has asked the Federal High Court in Abuja to permanently forfeit 57 properties allegedly linked to former Attorney General, Abubakar Malami. The request, filed before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, follows an interim forfeiture order issued in January 2026. The anti-graft agency argues that the assets were acquired through unlawful activities and should now belong to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
EFCC Pushes for Final Forfeiture Order
Lead counsel, Jibrin Okutepa, told the court that the respondents failed to justify ownership of the properties. He insisted that no sufficient cause exists to stop the final forfeiture.
According to him, the court has the legal authority under Section 17 of the Advance Fee Fraud Act, 2006. He also described the case as a non-conviction-based forfeiture proceeding.
Investigation Reveals Alleged Disproportionate Wealth
An EFCC investigator, Daniel Adebayo, stated that the commission received multiple petitions accusing Malami of corruption and abuse of office.
Subsequently, the agency conducted detailed investigations. These included reviewing financial records from banks and the Central Bank of Nigeria.
The EFCC also contacted several agencies such as:
- Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC)
- Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS)
- Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB)
- Abuja Geographical Information System (AGIS)
In addition, the team inspected properties across Kebbi, Kano, and other states.
Income vs Assets Raises Red Flags
The EFCC disclosed that Malami earned N89.6 million in salaries between 2015 and 2023. He also received a severance package of N12.1 million.
Furthermore, he declared N253.6 million as estacode allowances for official trips.
However, investigators argued that these earnings do not match the value of the properties. They claimed the assets run into billions of naira.
Allegations of Proxy Ownership and Hidden Assets
Investigators alleged that Malami acquired some assets through proxies and companies. These entities reportedly include Rayhaan Group Ltd and other firms.
They also claimed that several buildings lack proper approvals. According to the EFCC, this may indicate efforts to conceal the source of funds.
Court Proceedings and Legal Battle
Earlier, Justice Emeka Nwite ordered the interim forfeiture of the properties on January 6, 2026. The court also directed the EFCC to publish the order.
Afterward, the case moved to Justice Obiora Egwuatu, who later recused himself. Justice Abdulmalik now presides over the matter.
Meanwhile, Malami and other respondents have challenged the forfeiture. They urged the court to set aside the interim order.
The court has fixed April 21 for hearing the EFCC’s motion for final forfeiture.
Key Respondents in the Case
The suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/20/2026, lists several respondents. These include Malami, family members, and multiple companies linked to the assets.
Conclusion
The EFCC maintains that the properties are proceeds of unlawful activities. Therefore, it wants the court to transfer ownership permanently to the Federal Government.
However, the final decision now rests with the court.
