A Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed July 6, 2026, for judgment in the final forfeiture proceedings involving 57 properties linked to former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami.
The case was filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, which is seeking a court order to permanently seize the properties on allegations that they are proceeds of unlawful activities.
The anti-graft agency had earlier secured an interim forfeiture order in January 2026, temporarily taking control of the assets pending the final determination of the case.
The properties are linked not only to the former minister, but also to several family members and companies named in the suit, including hotels, agro-allied businesses, oil and gas firms and educational institutions.
At Tuesday’s proceedings, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik heard arguments from both the EFCC and defence lawyers before reserving judgment.
Counsel to the EFCC, J. S. Okutepa, told the court that the commission had filed extensive evidence, including a 77-paragraph affidavit supported by exhibits from investigators, to justify the forfeiture request.
According to him, the respondents failed to provide convincing explanations showing that the properties were legally acquired.
However, defence counsel, Adedayo Adedeji, urged the court to dismiss the application, arguing that the allegations against his clients were based on suspicion and not supported by sufficient proof.
The defence also filed several motions seeking to overturn the interim forfeiture order and requested additional time to explain why the properties should not be permanently forfeited to the Federal Government.
The case is one of the most closely watched corruption-related civil proceedings involving a former top government official and is expected to test the powers of anti-corruption agencies in asset recovery cases.
Justice Abdulmalik adjourned the matter until July 6 for final judgment.
