Judge Withdraws From Emefiele’s $2 Million Forfeiture Case

Justice Deinde Dipeolu of the Federal High Court in Lagos has withdrawn from overseeing the million forfeiture case involving former Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, Godwin Emefiele. The judge announced his decision on Thursday, returning the case file to the Administrative Judge for reassignment.

The case centers on an interim forfeiture order granted by Justice Akintayo Aluko on August 15, 2024, which involved the temporary forfeiture of million and several properties linked to Emefiele. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), represented by Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), filed an ex parte application for the forfeiture.

The properties in question include two duplexes in Lekki, undeveloped land in Ikoyi, Lagos, a bungalow in Ikoyi, a duplex on Probyn Road in Ikoyi, and an industrial complex under construction in Delta State. Additional properties include apartments and land in Ikoyi, as well as two share certificates belonging to Emefiele.

Justice Aluko had previously ordered the EFCC to publish the forfeiture notice, giving interested parties 14 days to contest the order. However, during Thursday’s hearing, Emefiele’s counsel, Olalekan Ojo (SAN), sought a stay of proceedings pending the outcome of a related criminal case.

With both sides presenting arguments, Justice Dipeolu stated he would not have sufficient time to address all pending applications, as his term as vacation judge was ending. He adjourned the case to October 4, 2024, and directed its reassignment for further instructions.