Nigeria’s anti-corruption war gains momentum, as REDAN commends EFCC’s progress on recovery of properties

Stanley Ihedigbo

Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, has issued a rallying cry to Nigerians to stand firm against economic and financial crimes, as well as corruption.

He emphasized that the country’s progress hinges on the collective resolve of its citizens to reject these illicit activities.

Also Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN) commended the commission for its strides in combating money laundering and recovery of 753 duplexes and other apartments in the Lokogoma District of Abuja.

According to the Head, Media and Publicity, EFCC, Mr. Dele Oyewale, he gave the charge in a New Year Message to the nation.

According to him, progress and robust development of the commanding heights of the economy and improvement in the quality of lives of Nigerians are hinged on the rejection of corruption by Nigerians.

“We can make any progress and development we want for our nation to happen by our support for anti-corruption initiatives. The new year is offering us fresh opportunities to recommit ourselves to the ideals of transparency, accountability, and probity. The commanding heights of the economy and improvement in our lives can only be driven by our dedication to integrity and accountable conduct”.

Olukoyede assured that the EFCC will surpass its 2024 record, maintaining that officers of the Commission are unrelenting in breaking strongholds of corrupt practices across the country.

“ Our work is more than a vocation but a patriotic calling. We know this and will always offer our best to move the nation forward. 2025 will be another year of bringing towers of corruption down. Our focus is set and our commitment is total”, he said.

The President and Chairman of the Council of REDAN, Prince Akintoye Adeoye in a letter addressed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a copy of which was made available to the EFCC, commended them on their vital roles in combating economic crimes, money laundering, and terrorism financing within the real estate sector and specifically lauded the EFCC’s Chairman, Mr. Ola Olukoyede for driving all the numerous achievements of the Commission in 2024.

“ REDAN acknowledges the vital role of the EFCC in combating economic crimes, money laundering, and terrorism financing within the real estate sector. These efforts are crucial to maintaining the integrity of our industry, ensuring it serves as a catalyst for national development rather than a haven for unscrupulous activities”, he said.

On the recovery and forfeiture of the Lokogoma’s apartments to the government, Adeoye commended the judiciary “ for its decisive action in the final forfeiture ruling. This judgment reinforces the commitment to upholding the rule of law and demonstrates a unified effort in combating corruption, aligning with the goals of your administration to ensure justice and accountability in Nigeria”.

Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, High Court, Abuja, granted the final forfeiture of the 753 apartments on December 2, 2024. The forfeiture was the largest single asset recovery of the EFCC.