The Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned the EFCC’s asset forfeiture case involving nine properties allegedly linked to former Bayelsa Governor Timipre Sylva until July 16, 2026
Court Adjourns EFCC Asset Forfeiture Case Against Properties Linked to Timipre Sylva
The Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday adjourned proceedings in the asset forfeiture case instituted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, against nine properties allegedly linked to former Bayelsa State Governor and ex-Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, until July 16, 2026.
Justice Obiora Egwuatu fixed the new date after counsel to the EFCC, Oluwaleke Atolagbe, informed the court that the anti-graft agency had yet to file a report confirming compliance with the interim forfeiture order previously granted by the court.
The court had on April 24 ordered the interim forfeiture of the nine Abuja properties to the Federal Government following an ex parte application filed by the EFCC in suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/607/2026.
According to the commission, the properties are allegedly connected to Sylva, prompting the court to approve the publication of the interim forfeiture order in two national newspapers, directing any interested parties to appear before the court within 14 days to show cause why the assets should not be permanently forfeited.
The properties, located across upscale districts in Abuja including Maitama, Wuse II, Garki, Mpape and Dakibiyu, consist of residential duplexes, office complexes, terraces and several blocks of flats.
At Monday’s proceedings, multiple lawyers appeared on behalf of individuals and organisations laying claim to some of the properties under dispute.
Benson Ibezim represented parties linked to properties listed as numbers one and nine, including four terrace blocks in Dakibiyu and two buildings in Garki currently occupied by the National Information Technology Development Agency.
Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Alex Ejiesieme, appeared for parties challenging claims over properties situated in Maitama and Wuse II, while Ajayi Olowo represented parties connected to a 12-unit apartment block located on Thaba Tseka Crescent, Wuse II.
Emmanuela Imonikeh also appeared for parties associated with a standalone duplex at Palm Springs Estate, Mpape.
Counsel to the EFCC disclosed that about six interested parties had already filed affidavits challenging the forfeiture proceedings but noted that no claims had been filed in respect of three of the listed properties.
The unclaimed assets include a 10-unit apartment block in Wuse Zone 4, a six-unit block of flats at No. 1 Mubi Close and a standalone duplex at No. 18 Nile Lake, Plot 1271, Maitama.
Atolagbe further told the court that the EFCC had filed a motion on notice seeking final forfeiture of the three unclaimed properties after no party contested the interim order.
Justice Egwuatu, however, directed the commission to publish the motion for final forfeiture in the same manner as the earlier interim order and ensure all interested parties are properly served in line with fair hearing requirements.
The judge also ordered the EFCC to file its compliance report and respond to all pending applications filed by parties contesting the forfeiture before adjourning the matter to July 16 for further proceedings.
