Abuja: The Federal High Court in Abuja has issued an interim forfeiture order on 57 properties suspected to be linked to unlawful activities involving Mr. Abubakar Malami, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice during the Muhamadu Buhari administration. Justice Emeka Nwite granted the order following an ex-parte motion presented by Ekele Iheanacho, a lawyer representing the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the properties in question, valued at billions of naira, are located in Abuja, Kebbi, Kano, and Kaduna states. Although the court order was issued on Tuesday, its certified true copy was made available to NAN by Wednesday. The order mandates the interim forfeiture of the properties to the Federal Government of Nigeria, as they are reasonably suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activities.
Justice Nwite also directed the publication of the interim forfeiture order in a national daily, inviting individuals or entities with interest in the properties to present their case within 14 days of publication. A report on compliance is scheduled for January 27. The properties listed include luxury duplexes, large storey buildings, hotels, plots of land, and commercial establishments spread across various locations, with detailed purchase dates and values provided in the court documents.
The EFCC’s suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/20/2026, was filed following several petitions alleging corruption, abuse of office, and fraud against Malami. The commission’s investigation involved reviewing financial records from banks and government agencies, visiting the properties, and interviewing involved parties. The EFCC claims Malami used his official position to acquire and disguise funds not derived from lawful income sources.
Malami, who served as AGF from 2015 to 2023, reportedly earned a salary totaling N89,664,000 during his tenure. However, the EFCC alleges that the properties were acquired with funds suspected to be unlawfully obtained, and many structures in Kano and Kebbi states lacked proper permits. Malami is also accused of using his position to influence the acquisition of properties through third parties or front companies under Rayhaan Group Ltd, which includes several businesses such as Rayhaan Hotels Limited and Atmal Oil and Gas Limited.