……Federal High Court issues Form 48, threatens contempt proceedings
A Federal High Court in Abuja has issued a strong warning to the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over the commission’s alleged refusal to comply with a judgment ordering the immediate release of 27 properties earlier seized on suspicion of being linked to proceeds of crime.
The warning, contained in a Form 48 (Notice of Consequences of Disobedience of Court Order), was issued on Tuesday by the court’s Registrar and addressed directly to the EFCC Chairman. The document, sighted by The Punch on Wednesday, cautions the anti-graft chief that continued non-compliance may amount to contempt of court.
The notice reads in part:
“Take notice that unless you obey the direction contained in the order of the Federal High Court made on 31st October 2025, which ordered you to immediately release the property documents to the property owners/respondents in suit no: FHC/ABJ/CS/348/2025, you will be guilty of contempt of court.”
It further stated that despite being served with the judgment, the EFCC had failed to release the title documents to the owners as of Tuesday, December 2, 2025.
Background of the Property Dispute
The EFCC had obtained an interim forfeiture order for the 27 houses on March 13, following claims that they were linked to illicit funds. The court ordered that the interim order be published within 14 days to allow interested parties to contest the forfeiture.
Subsequently, James Ikechukwu Okwete, his company Jamec West African Limited, and Adebukunola Iyabode Oladapo filed objections, asserting ownership of the properties.
On October 31, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik delivered judgment in their favour, vacating the interim forfeiture order and dismissing the EFCC’s application for permanent forfeiture. The court ruled that the claimants had successfully demonstrated legitimate ownership.
Justice Abdulmalik affirmed:
“I firmly find that the property owner/respondent’s affidavit to show cause has merit.”
The judge also upheld Oladapo’s claim to House No. 12, Fandriana Close, Wuse 2, Abuja.
Counsel Accuses EFCC of Defiance
Counsel to Okwete and Jamec Ltd, Serekowei Larry (SAN), wrote to the EFCC Chairman on November 27, alleging deliberate refusal to obey the judgment.
Larry stated that officials of the court’s Enforcement Unit visited the EFCC office on November 26 to execute the order, but the agency declined to release the documents.
“In any regime, talk less of a democracy, it will be the height of it if judgments of the court are blatantly disobeyed,” the letter warned.
The lawyer added that his clients expect prompt compliance from the EFCC before further legal steps are taken.
