The Federal Government has announced plans to sell 753 housing units forfeited by former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele, to Nigerians, following their recovery by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The announcement was made during a joint physical inspection of the estate by the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, and EFCC Chairman, Olanipekun Olukoyede. The confiscated estate, recovered in December 2024 and handed over to the Ministry by presidential directive, is considered the largest single asset recovery since the EFCC’s inception in 2003.
Dangiwa disclosed that the Ministry would begin immediate technical assessments, including structural integrity tests. Upon approval, the housing units will be completed and offered for sale through the Renewed Hope Portal, in line with the government’s housing policy.
“This government is serious about fighting corruption,” the Minister stated, praising the EFCC’s efforts and urging public officials to maintain integrity in office.
EFCC Chairman Olukoyede, while addressing journalists, emphasized that the site visit aimed to dispel doubts and reinforce transparency. “What Nigerians saw on TV was just an aerial view; this visit shows that it is real,” he said.
The estate spans over 150,000 square metres and comprises various residential structures, including duplexes and apartments.
The properties were forfeited after a final court order issued on December 2, 2024, by Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie of the Federal Capital Territory High Court. Emefiele had challenged the forfeiture in April 2025, alleging he was not informed of the proceedings despite ongoing legal engagements with the EFCC. The court, however, dismissed his application.
The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to transparency, urging the public to trust and support anti-corruption efforts for national development.
