The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to ensure that the forfeited Abuja estate linked to former Central Bank Governor, Godwin Emefiele, is transparently allocated to low- and middle-income earners, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and other vulnerable Nigerians.
This followed the adoption of a motion moved by Hon. Jafaru Gambo Leko on the 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 disclosed that the estate, located at Plot 109, Cadastral Zone C09, Lokogoma District, Abuja, comprises 753 duplexes and apartments spanning over 150,000 square metres.
The property was recently transferred to the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development after a final forfeiture order granted by the Federal High Court.
According to the lawmaker, the estate was allegedly acquired with proceeds of unlawful activities linked to Emefiele, and its recovery represents “a significant milestone in the nation’s anti-corruption efforts.
He said if properly managed, the asset could meaningfully address Nigeria’s widening housing deficit, especially in the Federal Capital Territory and other urban centres.
However, Leko warned that without a transparent and accountable framework, the allocation could end up benefiting privileged elites, thereby defeating the purpose of asset recovery and denying ordinary Nigerians access to affordable housing.
He further cautioned that the absence of a publicly available beneficiary selection process or legislative oversight could erode public confidence in government’s anti-corruption and social justice programmes.
Recalling the constitutional duty of government to ensure citizens’ welfare and access to shelter as provided under Chapter II of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), Leko urged the Ministry of Housing to establish and publish a clear, inclusive, and transparent allocation framework for the estate.
Following debate, the House resolved to mandate the ministry to prioritise low- and middle-income earners, IDPs, and other vulnerable groups in the allocation process.
Lawmakers also directed the ministry to submit a comprehensive report within 60 days, detailing the proposed use, allocation criteria, and selection process for the property.
Additionally, the House Committee on Housing and Habitat was instructed to liaise with the ministry to ensure that the allocation adheres to principles of fairness, transparency, and equity, and to report back within four weeks for further legislative action.
“Transparency in asset management is vital to building public trust. Nigerians must see the benefits of recovered assets directly improving lives, Leko emphasised.
