A Federal High Court in Abuja has again postponed judgment in the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission's (EFCC) suit seeking the final forfeiture of 57 properties allegedly linked to former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami (SAN).
Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, who had initially fixed judgment for July 6 after hearing final arguments, rescheduled the ruling to July 15 after the court did not sit.
The EFCC obtained an interim forfeiture order on January 6 over the properties located in Abuja, Kebbi, Kano and Kaduna states, alleging they were acquired with proceeds of unlawful activities. The Commission is seeking a final order transferring the assets to the Federal Government.
Counsel for the EFCC, Jibrin Okutepa (SAN), argued that the application for final forfeiture was supported by affidavit evidence and exhibits, contending that Malami and the other respondents failed to prove the properties were lawfully acquired.
However, Malami's lawyer, Adedayo Adedeji (SAN), urged the court to dismiss the application, arguing that the EFCC relied on suspicion rather than credible evidence. He also maintained that some of the properties were acquired before Malami became Attorney General and could not be linked to any alleged abuse of office.
Lawyers representing other individuals and companies claiming ownership of some of the properties also asked the court to reject the EFCC's application, insisting the assets were lawfully acquired.
The court is expected to deliver judgment on July 15.
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