Court Orders Forfeiture Of N725m Property Linked To Ex-NIMASA DG, Akpobolokemi

The Lagos State Federal High Court judge, Tijjani Ringim, on Monday, ordered an interim forfeiture of N725,345,897.77 and Plot J 37A 218 Close, 2nd Avenue, Banana Island, Ikoyi, allegedly diverted from the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA).

Court Orders Forfeiture Of N725m Property Linked To Ex-NIMASA DG, Akpobolokemi

Justice Ringim granted the order following a motion ex parte filed and argued by Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) counsel, Bilkisu Buhari.

Buhari informed the court that the sum and property was reasonably suspected to be aquireed with proceeds of unlawful activity, even as he linked the money and property to a former NIMASA Director-General, Patrick Akpobolokemi.

The counsel also prayed an order directing the EFCC to publish the interim order in a national newspaper, “for anyone interested in the properties sought to be forfeited to appear before the court to show cause within 14 days why the final order of forfeiture of the said properties should not be made in favour of the Federal Government of Nigeria.”

While granting the application, Justice Ringim said, “I have listened to the submission of counsel and perused the affidavit in support of the application together with exhibits.

“I find merit in this statutory application and same is granted as prayed.”