The Federal High Court in Lagos has ordered the final forfeiture of 52 residential properties in Lagos State to the federal government, citing evidence that these assets were acquired through illicit means.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) argued that the properties, owned by respondents including Afolabi Oladele and Godwin Emefiele, were linked to corrupt activities.

The court rejected the defendants' claims of legitimate ownership due to contradictions in their affidavits, particularly regarding the timeline of property development and financing.

EFCC's litigation officer provided a 31-paragraph affidavit supporting the case, while the court noted that the respondents failed to present credible evidence of legal acquisition.

This decision adds to a series of recent asset recoveries by anti-graft agencies, including cases involving former CBN Governor Emefiele and Attorney General Malami.The ruling underscores the judiciary's role in upholding anti-corruption efforts, with assets worth billions being seized in similar cases.The court emphasized that the EFCC met all procedural requirements for forfeiture, ensuring transparency in the legal process.