Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja ordered the final forfeiture of NOK University, Gwasmyen Water Factory, Gwasmyen Event Center, and Gwasmyen International Hotel in Kaduna State on Friday, June 7, 2024.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), represented by counsel Ekele Iheanacho, filed for the forfeiture under Section 17 of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act 2006 and Section 44(2) of the 1999 Constitution. Iheanacho demonstrated that Anthony Hassan, former Director of Finance and Accounts in the Federal Ministry of Health, used proceeds from unlawful activities to establish NOK University.
The forfeited assets of NOK University include the Senate building, ICT building, Faculty of Medicine building, Science Deanery building, two academic buildings, a faculty hall, and additional structures. Other forfeited properties include Gwasmyen Water Factory, Gwasmyen Event Center, and Gwasmyen International Hotel in Kaduna.
Investigative Officer Adaora Asabe Oragudosi from the EFCC conducted the investigation, which uncovered criminal conspiracy, theft, abuse of office, and money laundering linked to staff of the Federal Ministry of Health.
In her ruling, Justice Abdulmalik emphasized that individuals living beyond their means must justify their wealth. She noted that the respondent failed to present sufficient evidence to counter the charges. “Oral evidence cannot contradict or supersede documentary evidence because documentary evidence speaks for itself,” she stated.
The court had previously issued an interim forfeiture of the assets on June 1, 2022.
