The Federal High Court in Lagos has set September 12 for the hearing of various applications in the case concerning the forfeiture of assets linked to former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Godwin Emefiele. This decision was made by Justice Deinde Dipeolu following submissions from all parties involved.
Key details from the court proceedings include:
- Interim Forfeiture Order: On August 15, the court issued an interim forfeiture order for assets tied to Emefiele, including $2.045 million and several properties. This order was published in a national newspaper on August 28, as required.
- Defense Applications: Olalekan Ojo, SAN, representing Emefiele, has filed applications to stay further proceedings on the forfeiture case. Ojo requested an adjournment until September 9 to allow the court to address these applications.
- Property Occupants’ Concerns: Chibuzor Opara, representing occupants of one of the properties in question (No. 8a Adekunle Lawal Road, Ikoyi), reported not having received all necessary documents related to the case. He requested an adjournment to adequately prepare for his clients’ defense.
The forfeiture case involves several assets, including residential and commercial estates in Lagos and Delta State, as well as shares in a company owned by Emefiele. The court’s upcoming session will determine if these assets will be permanently forfeited to the Nigerian government.
