In a recent development at the Federal High Court in Lagos, Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke has lifted the interim forfeiture order placed on assets allegedly linked to Dr. Patrick Akpobolokemi, a former Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA).
The court had previously granted an interim forfeiture order on April 3, 2023, regarding property located at Plot No J37A Close, 2nd Avenue, Banana Island, Ikoyi, Lagos, and the sum of N725,345,897.77. These assets were reportedly associated with a Real Estate firm, Boloboloere Properties & Estates Limited, and another company, Onyeinteke Global Network.
However, the two firms challenged the order through their legal representative, A. Labi-Lawal, arguing that the EFCC failed to disclose material facts, including Boloboloere’s discharge from money laundering allegations.
Labi-Lawal contended that the EFCC did not demonstrate how Boloboloere’s property was acquired from proceeds of unlawful activities, and urged the court to set aside the interim forfeiture orders.
He accused the EFCC of deliberately withholding information about Boloboloere’s discharge from criminal liabilities, despite being aware of it.
This ruling marks a significant turn in the legal proceedings, emphasizing the importance of transparency and the need for evidence in forfeiture cases. As the case progresses, it underscores the necessity for thorough examination of facts and adherence to due process in legal proceedings.