Complete inventory: Anti-graft agency wins court order to seize 48 assets tied to Malami

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has successfully obtained the final forfeiture of 48 properties tied to former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, in favor of the Federal Government.

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This decision was made by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja, who granted the order on Wednesday, stating that the EFCC had demonstrated that the assets were likely acquired through unlawful means and not from legitimate income sources.

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Among the properties forfeited to the government are Rayhaan University's campuses in Kebbi State, including its permanent, temporary, and third campuses, as well as the Vice Chancellor's residence and Rayhaan Radio.

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Other forfeited assets include luxury buildings, hotels, and commercial plazas in Abuja, Kano, and Kebbi States, such as Meethaq Hotels in Jabi and Maitama, and Harmonia Hotels in Garki.

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The court also ordered the forfeiture of Rayhaan Agro Allied Factory in Kebbi State, including its buildings, machinery, and other facilities, as well as assets at Azbir Arena, including the hotel, printing press, and pharmacy.

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Additional properties affected by the order include the Al-Afiya Energy tanker garage, Rayhaan Security House, and the Zeennoor Hotel in Kano, among others.

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The case initially began on January 6, 2026, when Justice Emeka Nwite granted an interim forfeiture order following an application by EFCC counsel, Ekele Iheanacho.

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Following the interim order, the EFCC published notices in national newspapers, inviting interested parties to show cause why the assets should not be permanently forfeited to the Federal Government.

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Malami and 14 other respondents subsequently challenged the interim forfeiture, questioning the court's jurisdiction and urging it to reject the EFCC's request for permanent forfeiture.

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After hearing arguments on May 27, 2026, Justice Abdulmalik reserved judgment before delivering her ruling on Wednesday, ultimately holding that the EFCC had sufficiently established the properties were acquired with proceeds of unlawful activities.

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The court ruled that the respondents failed to prove the properties were acquired from legitimate sources, and instead merely claimed ownership without presenting evidence.

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According to the court, the respondents were required to provide evidence of the lawful sources of funds used to acquire the disputed assets, rather than relying on bare claims of ownership.