House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to allocate the forfeited Abuja estate linked to former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, to low- and middle-income earners, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and other vulnerable Nigerians.
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by Rep. Jafaru Gambo Leko, titled “Need for Transparent and Equitable Allocation of Forfeited Abuja Estate Handed Over to the Ministry of Housing by the EFCC.”
Leko explained that the estate, comprising 753 duplexes and apartments, is situated on Plot 109, Cadastral Zone C09, Lokogoma District, Abuja.
The property, covering over 150,000 square metres, was recently handed over by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development following a final forfeiture order issued by the Federal High Court.
He described the recovery as “a significant milestone in Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts,” noting that if properly managed, the estate could help address the country’s housing deficit, especially in urban centres like Abuja.
The lawmaker, however, raised concerns over the potential for mismanagement, warning that without a transparent and accountable framework, the properties could be cornered by “privileged elites,” thereby undermining the objectives of asset recovery and denying ordinary Nigerians access to affordable housing.
Leko reminded the House of the constitutional obligation of all levels of government to ensure the welfare of citizens, including the provision of adequate shelter, as enshrined in Chapter II of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
Following deliberations, the House urged the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development to develop and publish a transparent and inclusive allocation framework for the estate, with priority given to low- and middle-income earners, IDPs, and other vulnerable groups.
The Ministry is expected to submit a comprehensive report to the House within 60 days, detailing the proposed use, allocation criteria, and beneficiary selection process for the property.
Additionally, the House directed its Committee on Housing and Habitat to liaise with the Ministry to ensure that the allocation process adheres to the principles of equity, fairness, and transparency, and to report back within four weeks for further legislative action.
“Transparency in asset management is vital to building public trust. Nigerians must see the benefits of recovered assets directly improving lives,” Leko said.
