EFCC Detains Property Firm MD Over Disputed ₦128m Awka Land Sale

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has arrested Basil Iwoba Ochili, Managing Director of Debasilio Construction and Estate Development Limited, following allegations involving a ₦128 million land transaction in Anambra State.

Its Enugu Zonal Directorate said a petitioner accused Ochili of claiming ownership of five plots beside Stamford Hotel, near the state secretariat at Aroma Junction, Awka.

The complainant reportedly transferred ₦128 million into the company’s account but could not take possession.

According to the EFCC, preliminary findings suggest Ochili knew the plots belonged to the state government’s secretariat land when he offered them for sale.

The commission alleged that he subsequently issued two dud cheques instead of refunding the buyer. It also claimed that some proceeds went towards debt repayment and that his company had never complied with tax obligations.

The EFCC said prosecution would follow completion of its investigation. The allegations remain unproven in court.