posted 22nd May 2025
FG to Sell 753 Duplexes Allegedly Recovered from Former CBN Governor
The Federal Government of Nigeria has unveiled plans to sell 753 duplex housing units recovered from Godwin Emefiele, the former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, as proceeds of crime. The announcement was made on Tuesday by Salisu Haiba, spokesperson for the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development.
In a statement, Mr Haiba confirmed that the ministry had taken possession of the estate, comprising 753 duplexes, which were recovered by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) from Mr Emefiele. The properties, located at Plot 109, Cadastral Zone CO9, Lokogoma District, Abuja, span a land area of 150,462.86 square metres. The duplexes will be offered for sale to the public and for special government purposes.
The handover of the estate was formalised by EFCC Executive Chairman Olanipekun Olukoyede to the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa. Mr Dangiwa praised the EFCC for its relentless efforts in combating corruption and recovering public assets. He announced that the ministry, in collaboration with the EFCC, would conduct a joint familiarisation tour to assess the condition of the estate.
“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. “A comprehensive technical evaluation will also determine the cost of completing outstanding infrastructure, including perimeter fencing, internal roads, drainage systems, a police post, shopping areas, recreational centres, and other essential amenities.”
The minister assured that the sale process would be transparent and competitive, with a nationwide advertisement campaign and the use of the Renewed Hope Portal for interested Nigerians to submit expressions of interest.
Mr Olukoyede, speaking at the handover, underscored the significance of the forfeited property as a milestone in the fight against financial crimes. He revealed that President Bola Tinubu had directed the transfer of the estate to the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development for completion. The EFCC, he added, would monitor the project’s progress and provide periodic updates to the president.
The EFCC chairman expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for fostering an environment conducive to anti-corruption efforts and commended the judiciary for its role in ensuring accountability. “This handover demonstrates the impact of our fight against corruption and the importance of transparency in managing forfeited assets,” Mr Olukoyede said.
The sale of the recovered duplexes is expected to provide housing opportunities for Nigerians while reinforcing the government’s commitment to accountability and the recovery of illicitly acquired assets.
