The Federal High Court in Abuja has issued an interim order for the forfeiture of nine properties allegedly connected to former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva. Justice Obiora Egwuatu delivered the ruling on Wednesday, acting on an application filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and argued by counsel Oluwaleke Atolagbe.
In his decision, the judge stated that the properties are suspected to be proceeds of illegal activities and ordered their temporary seizure pending a final forfeiture hearing. He directed that any interested parties must appear within 14 days to show cause why the assets should not be permanently forfeited to the federal government.
The court also mandated the publication of the forfeiture notice within seven days of receiving the official order. The case has been adjourned to May 25 for a compliance report.
The EFCC brought the application under the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act of 2006, citing its belief that the assets were acquired through unlawful means. The properties are situated in upscale areas of Abuja, including terrace buildings in Dakibiyu, a duplex with a penthouse and office on Niger Street, a unit in Palm Springs Estate in Mpape, and several blocks of flats in Wuse, Garki, and Maitama. Notably, one of the buildings in Garki is currently occupied by the National Information Technology Development Agency.