The Federal Government has disclosed plans to sell 753 duplexes recovered from embattled former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) governor, Godwin Emefiele, as part of ongoing efforts to recover and repurpose looted assets.
The announcement was made on Tuesday via a statement by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, Mr. Salisu Haiba, who confirmed that the properties were officially handed over to the ministry by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Mr. Haiba revealed that the housing units, located on Plot 109, Cadastral Zone C09, Lokogoma District, Abuja, sit on over 150,000 square metres of land and are to be offered for public purchase as well as to meet specific government needs.
The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Mr. Ahmed Dangiwa, who received the estate on behalf of the federal government, commended the EFCC for its role in the asset recovery.
He said a comprehensive technical evaluation would be conducted to assess the structural integrity and determine the cost of completing pending infrastructure.
“We intend to carry out thorough integrity and structural assessments on all buildings and associated infrastructure to confirm their safety and suitability for habitation,” Mr. Dangiwa said.
“This will cover perimeter fencing, roads, drainage systems, a police post, shopping areas, recreational centres, and other amenities.”
He stated that the sale would follow a transparent and competitive process, including a nationwide call for expressions of interest via the Renewed Hope Portal.
Also speaking, EFCC Chairman, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, said the handover was in line with President Bola Tinubu’s directive for proper management of forfeited assets and reflects the administration’s renewed commitment to fighting corruption.
“The transfer of these properties signifies a landmark in the recovery and repurposing of proceeds of crime,” Olukoyede noted, adding that the commission would monitor the completion process and provide periodic updates to the President.
Mr. Olukoyede further acknowledged the support of the judiciary and President Tinubu, whom he credited for creating an enabling environment for anti-corruption agencies to thrive.
The housing estate is among several assets seized from Mr. Emefiele, who is facing multiple investigations relating to financial misconduct during his tenure as apex bank governor.
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