The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, secured the final forfeiture of 48 properties linked to a former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Among the forfeited properties are Rayhaan University, Kebbi State, including the Rayhaan University Permanent Site, Rayhaan University Temporary Site, Rayhaan University Third Site, the Rayhaan University Vice Chancellor’s House and Rayhaan Radio along Sani Abacha Bypass Road, Birnin Kebbi.
Delivering judgment, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court, Abuja, held that the Commission had successfully established that the properties were reasonably suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activities and were not acquired from lawful sources of income.
Other properties finally forfeited to the Federal Government are: a luxury duplex at Amazon Street, Plot No. 3011 within Cadastral Zone A06, Maitama District, Abuja (File No. AN 11352); a two-winged large three-storey building situated at No. 3 Onitsha Crescent, Area 11, Garki, Cadastral Zone A03, Abuja (formerly Harmonia Hotels Limited); Plot 683, Jabi District, Cadastral Zone B04, comprising a five-storey building (now luxurious Meethaq Hotels Ltd., Jabi, with 53 rooms/suites); Property No. 3130 within Cadastral Zone A04, Asokoro District, FCT, Abuja, comprising terraces; Property No. 3 Rhine Street, Maitama, Abuja (Meethaq Hotels Ltd., Maitama, with 15 rooms); and Plot No. 1241B, Asokoro District (No. 11A Yakubu Gowon Crescent), Asokoro District.
Others are: Shop No. C52, Citiscape – Shariff Plaza, Plot 739, Cadastral Zone A07, Aminu Kano Crescent, Wuse II, FCT, Abuja; No. 4 Ahmadu Bello Way, Nasarawa GRA, Kano; Plot 157, Lamido Nasarawa GRA, Kano; a commercial plaza comprising commercial toilets, laundering facilities, warehouse tanks adjacent to Birnin Kebbi Market; 100 hectares of land along Birnin Kebbi–Jega Road; and another 100 hectares of land along Birnin Kebbi–Jega Road.
Others are: a four-bedroom bungalow at Gesse Phase II, Birnin Kebbi; Shops Nos. A36 and B3, Vegas Mall, Wuse II, Abuja; No. 26 Babbi Drive, BUA Estate, Abuja; No. 27 EFAB Estate, 5th Avenue, 59th Crescent, Gwarimpa, Abuja; a four-bedroom house with two-room boys’ quarters at No. 10B Doka Crescent, Abakpa GRA, Kaduna; Plot No. 13, IPENT 7 Estate, Karsana District, Abuja; a bedroom duplex with boys’ quarters at No. 12 Yalinga Street, off Adetokunbo Ademola Crescent, Wuse II, Abuja; two warehouse shops B40 and B46, Wuse Market, Abuja; acquisition of twin houses at Zone E, Apo Legislative Quarters, Cadastral Zone B01, Plot 1401, Gudu District, Abuja; and properties acquired by Khadimiyya for Justice & Development Initiative at the Academic Garden City, Birnin Kebbi, sold by the Federal Housing Authority Mortgage, namely: nine units of three-bedroom bungalows, three units of two-bedroom bungalows, and 5.4 hectares of land.
Also forfeited are the Rayhaan Agro Allied Factory in Kebbi State, including the factory buildings, factory machines and plant units, factory lmosque, Rayhaan Mill staff quarters, and the Rayhaan Bustan Building.
Others are assets at Azbir Arena, Kebbi State, including Azbir Hotel, Printing Press, Gallery, Gardens, Mosque, Azbir Clothing, and Azbir Pharmacy and Supermarket.
Other forfeited properties include the Al-Afiya Energy tanker garage opposite Rayhaan University Health Centre along Sani Abacha Bypass Road, Birnin Kebbi; Rayhaan Security House off Sani Abacha Bypass, Birnin Kebbi; an uncompleted two-storey plaza located opposite Central Motor Park (Eastern Park), Birnin Kebbi; Amasdul Oil and Gas Ltd. filling station structure along Sani Abacha Bypass Road, Birnin Kebbi, near Jambali Automobile Workshop; the assets of Zeennoor Hotel at Kabuga Satellite Town, off Gwarzo Road, Kano, with 131 rooms; Zeennoor Mosque at Kabuga Satellite Town, off Gwarzo Road, Kano; and the old Zeennoor Hotel building.
It would be recalled that on January 6, 2026, Justice Emeka Nwite granted the interim forfeiture following an ex parte motion moved by counsel to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Ekele Iheanacho, SAN.
Sequel to the granting of the interim forfeiture order, and in compliance with the order of the court, the EFCC published the interim order in national dailies, inviting interested persons to come forward and show cause why the final forfeiture order should not be granted in favour of the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The EFCC subsequently filed a motion for the final forfeiture of all the properties.
Meanwhile, following the publication of the interim order, Mr. Malami, SAN, and 14 other persons, mainly his family members and associates, filed applications to show cause and also urged the court to set aside the interim forfeiture order on the properties. They further challenged the jurisdiction of the court to grant the order and urged it not to grant the final forfeiture order.
The case was heard before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik on May 27, 2026, and the matter was thereafter adjourned for judgment.
Delivering judgment on Wednesday, the court held that the EFCC had sufficiently established that the 48 properties were reasonably suspected to have been acquired with proceeds of unlawful activities, and that the respondents failed to discharge the evidential burden placed on them, as they could not show the legitimate sources of the funds used in acquiring the properties.
The court further held that the respondents merely claimed ownership of the properties without providing proof of how they acquired them with funds from lawful sources.
According to the court, non conviction-based forfeiture proceedings require respondents to aduce evidence showing the lawful sources of the funds used in acquiring the properties, and not merely make bare assertions of ownership.
About the author
Rwanda vs Nigeria: Chelle reignites the Super Eagles’ aspirations for the 2026 World Cup in Kigali.
On Friday, Eric Chelle became the inaugural non-Nigerian African coach to take the helm of the Super Eagles. The Malian coach directed his first match, resulting in a 2-0 win against Rwanda during a qualifying round for the 2026 World Cup. Chelle's appointment by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) took place on January 7, as he replaced Finidi George and succeeded interim coach Augustine Eguavoen. Since that time, he has dedicated three months to traveling across Nigeria, observing domestic league matches, and engaging with his players based in Europe. However, his initial team selection remained perplexing. Chelle opted for a highly offensive formation in Kigali, which appeared unbalanced on paper. Victor Osimhen, Samuel Chukwueze, Ademola Lookman, and Moses Simon were all included in the attacking lineup, while Alex Iwobi and Wilfred Ndidi occupied the midfield positions. "I had mixed feelings. […]
EFCC Secures Final Forfeiture of University, Radio Station, 46 Other Properties Linked to Malami
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, secured the final forfeiture of 48 properties linked to a former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, to the Federal Government of Nigeria. Among the forfeited properties are Rayhaan University, Kebbi State, including the Rayhaan University Permanent Site, Rayhaan University Temporary Site, Rayhaan University Third Site, the Rayhaan University Vice Chancellor's House and Rayhaan Radio along Sani Abacha Bypass Road, Birnin Kebbi. Delivering judgment, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court, Abuja, held that the Commission had successfully established that the properties were reasonably suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activities and were not acquired from lawful sources of income. Other properties finally forfeited to the Federal Government are: a luxury duplex at Amazon Street, Plot No. 3011 within Cadastral Zone A06, […]
Makinde under fire over call for UN probe of Oriire abduction
More knocks came yesterday for Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde over his call on the United Nations (UN) and other foreign bodies to probe the abduction and rescue of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area. The Senate, which expressed surprise at the governor’s outburst, lamented that he attempted to trivialise the genuine efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the sacrifices made by security agencies during the rescue mission. Chiding Makinde for his remarks, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) George Akume wondered why the governor chose to politicise a matter of national importance. Also rejecting the call, Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, asked the governor to apologise to the victims. Former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose said that instead of calling for an international investigation, Makinde’s actions during and after the […]
Ruthless Spain eliminate France to reach World Cup final
European champions Spain beat France 2-0 in the World Cup semi-finals on Tuesday, to book a place in Sunday’s final. Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 22nd minute after Lucas Digne fouled Lamine Yamal in the box. Spain took command through their positional play after an even start, limiting France’s chances and controlling the tempo. Pedro Porro doubled the lead in the 58th minute after a one-two with Dani Olmo sent him through to finish past Mike Maignan, the France goalkeeper. Spain, World Cup winners in 2010, will seek their second title against England or Argentina at New York/New Jersey Stadium on Sunday.
Police arrest ‘fake’ PFIPC Director-General, Adeyemi
The police have arrested the Director-General of the ‘fake’ Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC), Adeniyi Adeyemi at his hideout in Osun State. Confirming the arrest on Tuesday, 14/0726, the spokesperson for the Police Command in Osun State, Abiodun Ojelabi, said Adeyemi was arrested by the Intelligence Response Team from Abuja. Ojelabi stated that Adeyemi is likely to be transferred to Abuja later today. “Yes, it is confirmed. The Intelligence Response Team from Abuja arrested him here in Osun State,” he said. A video of the arrest showed Adeyemi dressed in a light blue traditional outfit while surrounded by security operatives. Adeyemi was arraigned on Tuesday, 14/07/26 on eight-count charge by the police. However, when the case was called at the resumed proceedings, Adeyemi and other defendants were absent. Wisdom Madaki, the lawyer to the police, subsequently urged the court […]
U.S carries out 3rd consecutive night strikes against Iran
The United States Central Command(CENTCOM) says it has carried out a third consecutive night of airstrikes against Iran. CENTCOM revealed this in a post on its verified X handle on Monday. “These strikes will continue imposing a heavy cost on Iranian forces and degrade their ability to attack innocent civilians and commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz,” the post read. The third strikes came after President Donald Trump said in an interview with Hugh Hewitt that there would be more airstrikes against Iran Monday and Tuesday night. He stated that the United States was taking control of the Strait of Hormuz, stressing that wealthy countries would pay for US efforts to secure the waterway. Trump alleged that Iranian negotiators were reversing agreements reached during previous talks, warning of further military action if Tehran violated ceasefire commitments. Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign […]
Killings: Gov Adeleke seeks visa ban on Osun opposition leaders
Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has called for economic sanctions and visa bans against opposition leaders in the state, for allegedly aiding political violence in the state ahead of the August 15 governorship election. The governor made the call on Monday while receiving a delegation of the British Government on a pre-election peace-building mission to Osun State. Adeleke alleged that the named politicians were encouraging violence through their supporters, leading to killings and gun attacks across the state. According to a statement signed by the governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, the governor urges the international community to impose sanctions on politicians and security officials found to be sponsoring or enabling political violence. While commending security chiefs for intervening to curb the violence, Adeleke insisted that those responsible for instigating attacks must be held accountable, regardless of their political affiliations. “I […]
Related
Makinde under fire over call for UN probe of Oriire abduction
More knocks came yesterday for Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde over his call on the United Nations (UN) and other foreign bodies to probe the abduction and rescue of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area. The Senate, which expressed surprise at the governor’s outburst, lamented that he attempted to trivialise the genuine efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the sacrifices made by security agencies during the rescue mission. Chiding Makinde for his remarks, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) George Akume wondered why the governor chose to politicise a matter of national importance. Also rejecting the call, Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, asked the governor to apologise to the victims. Former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose said that instead of calling for an international investigation, Makinde’s actions during and after the […]
Ruthless Spain eliminate France to reach World Cup final
European champions Spain beat France 2-0 in the World Cup semi-finals on Tuesday, to book a place in Sunday’s final. Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 22nd minute after Lucas Digne fouled Lamine Yamal in the box. Spain took command through their positional play after an even start, limiting France’s chances and controlling the tempo. Pedro Porro doubled the lead in the 58th minute after a one-two with Dani Olmo sent him through to finish past Mike Maignan, the France goalkeeper. Spain, World Cup winners in 2010, will seek their second title against England or Argentina at New York/New Jersey Stadium on Sunday.
Police arrest ‘fake’ PFIPC Director-General, Adeyemi
The police have arrested the Director-General of the ‘fake’ Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC), Adeniyi Adeyemi at his hideout in Osun State. Confirming the arrest on Tuesday, 14/0726, the spokesperson for the Police Command in Osun State, Abiodun Ojelabi, said Adeyemi was arrested by the Intelligence Response Team from Abuja. Ojelabi stated that Adeyemi is likely to be transferred to Abuja later today. “Yes, it is confirmed. The Intelligence Response Team from Abuja arrested him here in Osun State,” he said. A video of the arrest showed Adeyemi dressed in a light blue traditional outfit while surrounded by security operatives. Adeyemi was arraigned on Tuesday, 14/07/26 on eight-count charge by the police. However, when the case was called at the resumed proceedings, Adeyemi and other defendants were absent. Wisdom Madaki, the lawyer to the police, subsequently urged the court […]
U.S carries out 3rd consecutive night strikes against Iran
The United States Central Command(CENTCOM) says it has carried out a third consecutive night of airstrikes against Iran. CENTCOM revealed this in a post on its verified X handle on Monday. “These strikes will continue imposing a heavy cost on Iranian forces and degrade their ability to attack innocent civilians and commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz,” the post read. The third strikes came after President Donald Trump said in an interview with Hugh Hewitt that there would be more airstrikes against Iran Monday and Tuesday night. He stated that the United States was taking control of the Strait of Hormuz, stressing that wealthy countries would pay for US efforts to secure the waterway. Trump alleged that Iranian negotiators were reversing agreements reached during previous talks, warning of further military action if Tehran violated ceasefire commitments. Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign […]
Killings: Gov Adeleke seeks visa ban on Osun opposition leaders
Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has called for economic sanctions and visa bans against opposition leaders in the state, for allegedly aiding political violence in the state ahead of the August 15 governorship election. The governor made the call on Monday while receiving a delegation of the British Government on a pre-election peace-building mission to Osun State. Adeleke alleged that the named politicians were encouraging violence through their supporters, leading to killings and gun attacks across the state. According to a statement signed by the governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, the governor urges the international community to impose sanctions on politicians and security officials found to be sponsoring or enabling political violence. While commending security chiefs for intervening to curb the violence, Adeleke insisted that those responsible for instigating attacks must be held accountable, regardless of their political affiliations. “I […]
Residents flee as suspected herders attack Ondo community in Benue
Residents of Ondo community in Ugboju, Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State, on Tuesday morning abandoned their homes following a fresh attack by suspected armed herdsmen. Sources said that the attackers stormed the community in the early hours, firing sporadically and triggering panic among locals, who fled for their safety. According to our correspondent in Benue sate, a native of the community and Labour Party House of Assembly candidate for the 2027 elections, Jimmy Nart, said the attack was ongoing at the time of filing this report. Our correspondent reported that Jimmy Nart wrote: “I just received information from my family that Fulani terrorists are currently attacking Ondo residents in Ugboju. So, protect yourselves.” Residents said the situation remained tense as many families continued to flee the area for fear of further attacks. The latest attack comes barely 48 […]
Be the first to leave a comment