CACOL Commends EFCC, Judiciary Over Final Forfeiture Of 48 Properties Linked To Former AGF
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LAGOS – The Centre for Anti-Corruption and Open Leadership (CACOL) has commended the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigerian judiciary over the Federal High Court’s order granting the final forfeiture of 48 properties linked to the former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Abubakar Malami (SAN), to the Federal Government.
Dedo Adeniran, CACOL Chairman, in a statement signed by the organisation’s Director of Administration and Programmes, Tola Oresanwo, stated that according to the court, presided over by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, the claimants failed to establish that the funds used in acquiring the properties were legitimately earned. In delivering the judgment, the learned judge rightly observed that the central issue betfore the court was not merely who owned the properties, but whether the funds used in acquiring them were lawfully obtained.
CACOL stated that this decision represents another significant milestone in Nigeria’s fight against corruption and illicit enrichment.
CACOL applauds the EFCC for its painstaking investigation, professionalism, and resilience in diligently pursuing the matter to its logical conclusion.
It said: “The Commission deserves commendation for demonstrating that with thorough investigation, painstaking prosecution, and institutional courage, even complex high-profile asset recovery cases can be successfully prosecuted within the ambit of the law.
“We also salute the Nigerian judiciary for once again affirming its indispensable role in the fight against corruption. The judgment reinforces the confidence of Nigerians in the courts as impartial arbiters capable of ensuring that justice prevails irrespective of the status of those involved.
“This landmark judgment should serve as a sobering reminder to all public office holders that public office is a sacred trust and not an avenue for personal enrichment.
“Every individual entrusted with public resources must realise that the day will inevitably come when they will be called upon to render account of their stewardship.”
