Reps call for forfeited Emefiele-linked estate to be given to low-income earners and IDPs

The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to allocate the forfeited Abuja estate linked to former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele, to low- and middle-income earners, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and other vulnerable Nigerians.

The resolution followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by Jafaru Gambo Leko, titled “Need for Transparent and Equitable Allocation of Forfeited Abuja Estate Handed Over to the Ministry of Housing by the EFCC.”

Leko explained that the estate, which consists of 753 duplexes and apartments, is located on Plot 109, Cadastral Zone C09, Lokogoma District, Abuja. It was recently handed over by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development after a final forfeiture order issued by the Federal High Court.

He noted that the property, covering over 150,000 square metres, was allegedly acquired with proceeds of unlawful activities linked to Emefiele, describing its recovery as “a significant milestone in Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts.” According to him, if properly managed, the estate could contribute meaningfully to addressing Nigeria’s housing deficit, particularly in major cities like Abuja.

However, the lawmaker expressed concern that without a transparent and accountable framework, the properties could end up in the hands of “privileged elites,” thereby defeating the purpose of asset recovery and denying ordinary Nigerians access to affordable housing. He warned that the absence of a publicly available selection process or legislative oversight could erode public confidence in the government’s anti-corruption and social justice programmes.

Leko also reminded the House of the constitutional obligation of all levels of government to ensure the welfare of citizens, including the provision of adequate shelter, as enshrined in Chapter II of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

Following the debate, the House urged the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development to develop and publish a transparent and inclusive allocation framework for the estate, prioritising low- and middle-income earners, IDPs, and other vulnerable groups. The ministry is also expected to submit a comprehensive report to the House within 60 days, detailing the proposed use, allocation criteria, and beneficiary selection process for the property.

The House further directed its Committee on Housing and Habitat to liaise with the ministry to ensure that the allocation process follows the principles of equity, fairness, and transparency, and to report back within four weeks for further legislative action.

“Transparency in asset management is vital to building public trust. Nigerians must see the benefits of recovered assets directly improving lives,” Leko added.

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