Reps Urge Federal Government to Allocate Forfeited Emefiele-Linked Estate to Vulnerable Nigerians
The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to ensure the equitable and transparent allocation of a forfeited housing estate in Abuja previously linked to former Central Bank Governor, Godwin Emefiele to low- and middle-income earners, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and other vulnerable groups.
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by Hon. Jafaru Gambo Leko, who expressed concern about the handling of the estate, which was recently transferred to the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Calls for Transparency and Accountability
The property, located on Plot 109, Cadastral Zone C09 in the Lokogoma District of Abuja, comprises 753 duplexes and apartments spread across more than 150,000 square metres. It was forfeited to the Federal Government following a final order of the Federal High Court after the EFCC alleged it had been acquired using proceeds of unlawful activities.
Leko described the estate’s recovery as a milestone in Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts but cautioned that without a transparent allocation framework, the property risked being “recycled into the hands of the privileged,” thereby undermining the intent of asset recovery.
He emphasised that the government must demonstrate accountability by ensuring that recovered public assets directly benefit ordinary Nigerians. “Transparency in asset management is vital to building public trust,” he said. “Nigerians must see the direct benefits of recovered assets improving lives and delivering justice.”
Legislative Oversight and Public Welfare
The lawmaker reminded the House that under Chapter II of the 1999 Constitution, the government bears a constitutional responsibility to promote the welfare of citizens and guarantee access to adequate shelter. He therefore called for legislative oversight to prevent potential mismanagement or political interference in the estate’s distribution.
Following deliberation, the House directed the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development to develop and publicly release a detailed, inclusive allocation plan that clearly outlines beneficiary selection criteria. The framework, lawmakers said, must prioritise vulnerable Nigerians, particularly those affected by displacement and housing insecurity.
The Ministry is expected to submit a progress report within 60 days, detailing the intended use of the property and the mechanism for monitoring the process. The Committee on Housing and Habitat was also mandated to collaborate with the ministry to ensure the allocation aligns with fairness, equity, and transparency principles.
