CACOL commends EFCC, judiciary over final forfeiture of Malami’s 48 properties
By Onyewuchi Ojinnaka
A Lagos based anti-corruption crusader and advocate of good governance, the Centre for Anti-Corruption and Open Leadership (CACOL) has commended the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigerian judiciary over the Federal High Court’s order granting the final forfeiture of 48 properties linked to the former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Abubakar Malami (SAN), to the Federal Government.
In a release signed by the organization’s Director of Administration and Programmes, Tola Oresanwo on behalf of the organization’s Chairman, Debo Adeniran, he stated, “According to the court, presided over by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, the claimant failed to establish that the funds used in acquiring the properties were legitimately earned.
In delivering the judgement, Justice Abdulmalik rightly observed that “the central issue before the court was not merely who owned the properties, but whether the funds used in acquiring them were lawfully obtained. This decision represents another significant milestone in Nigeria’s fight against corruption and illicit enrichment.”
CACOL applauds the EFCC for its painstaking investigation, professionalism, and resilience in diligently pursuing the matter to its logical conclusion.
The Commission deserves commendation for demonstrating that with thorough investigation, painstaking prosecution, and institutional courage, even complex high-profile asset recovery cases can be successfully prosecuted within the ambit of the law.
We also salute the Nigerian judiciary for once again affirming its indispensable role in the fight against corruption. The judgement reinforces the confidence of Nigerians in the courts as impartial arbiters capable of ensuring that justice prevails irrespective of the status of those involved.
This landmark judgement should serve as a sobering reminder to all public office holders that public office is a sacred trust and not an avenue for personal enrichment. Every individual entrusted with public resources must realize that the day will inevitably come when they will be called upon to render account of their stewardship.
“Accountability remains one of the cardinal principles of democratic governance, and no one should assume that public office confers permanent immunity from scrutiny.”
CACOL urges the Federal Government to ensure that the forfeited properties do not become abandoned assets or objects of political patronage. Rather, they should either be converted into facilities that directly serve the Nigerian people such as schools, hospitals, research institutions, affordable housing, or vocational centres or be disposed of through a transparent, competitive, and publicly monitored process. The proceeds from such sales should be channeled into critical sectors that improve the welfare and living standards of Nigerians.
While commending the EFCC on this remarkable achievement, CACOL encourages the Commission to sustain the momentum by ensuring that all corruption cases are investigated and prosecuted without fear, favour, or political consideration.
The anti-corruption war can only retain public credibility when justice is applied fairly and consistently to all persons, irrespective of their political affiliation, social status, or former office.
“The Centre reiterates its unwavering commitment to supporting every lawful and genuine effort aimed at preventing, exposing, investigating, and prosecuting corruption in both the public and private sectors.
“As one of Nigeria’s foremost anti-corruption organizations, CACOL will continue to advocate for stronger institutions, transparent governance, prudent management of public resources, and strict accountability in public service.”
