The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to allocate a forfeited estate in Abuja—allegedly linked to former Central Bank Governor Godwin Emefiele—to low- and middle-income earners, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and other vulnerable Nigerians.
This resolution followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by Rep. Jafaru Gambo Leko, titled “Need for Transparent and Equitable Allocation of Forfeited Abuja Estate Handed Over to the Ministry of Housing by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).”
Leko noted that the estate, located at Plot 109, Cadastral Zone C09 in the Lokogoma District of Abuja, comprises 753 duplexes and apartments spread across more than 150,000 square meters. The property was recently handed over by the EFCC to the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development after a final forfeiture order was granted by the Federal High Court.
According to Leko, the estate was allegedly acquired through proceeds of unlawful activities linked to the former apex bank governor. Its recovery, he said, marks “a significant milestone in the nation’s anti-corruption efforts.”
Housing for the Vulnerable
“If properly managed,” Leko argued, “the estate could meaningfully help address Nigeria’s chronic housing deficit, especially in major urban centres like Abuja.” He, however, raised concerns that without a transparent and accountable allocation framework, the properties risk being diverted to “privileged elites,” thereby undermining the goals of asset recovery and social justice.
The lawmaker further warned that the absence of a clear beneficiary selection process or legislative oversight could damage public confidence in the government’s anti-corruption and welfare initiatives.
He cited Chapter II of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which obligates all levels of government to prioritize citizens’ welfare, including the provision of adequate shelter.
House Resolutions
Following deliberations, the House resolved to:
- Urge the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development to develop and publish a transparent, inclusive allocation framework that prioritises low- and middle-income earners, IDPs, and other vulnerable Nigerians.
- Direct the ministry to submit a comprehensive report to the House within 60 days, detailing the proposed use of the estate, allocation criteria, and selection process for beneficiaries.
- Mandate the House Committee on Housing and Habitat to collaborate with the ministry to ensure the allocation process adheres to principles of equity, fairness, and transparency.
- Require the committee to report back within four weeks for further legislative action.
Rep. Leko concluded by stressing the importance of public trust in asset recovery initiatives:
“Transparency in asset management is vital to building public trust. Nigerians must see the benefits of recovered assets directly improving lives.”
