The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the final forfeiture of two properties in Abuja and Kano to the Federal Government. The ruling, delivered by Justice Obiora Egwuatu on April 3, 2025, follows an application by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The properties, linked to Aminu Sidi Garunbabba, a senior official of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), include a four-bedroom terrace with a boys’ quarters in Barumark Groove Estate, Wuye District, Abuja, and a property at No. 5 Lodge Road, Kano. The EFCC argued that the assets were acquired with proceeds from fraudulent Duty Tour Allowances within the FIRS.
The court had initially granted an interim forfeiture order on February 16, 2022, directing the publication of the order to allow any interested parties to contest the forfeiture. However, no credible claim was presented.
During the final hearing, the defence argued that an ongoing administrative disciplinary process should prevent prosecution. Justice Egwuatu dismissed the objection, affirming that the forfeiture proceedings were separate from any criminal case. The court ruled that the properties were reasonably suspected to be proceeds of crime and that the defendant failed to prove they were acquired through legitimate earnings.
With this ruling, the EFCC continues its crackdown on corruption and financial crimes within government agencies.
