The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to ensure the equitable distribution of a forfeited Abuja housing estate, previously linked to former Central Bank Governor, Godwin Emefiele. Lawmakers urged that the estate be allocated to low- and middle-income earners, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and other vulnerable groups.
This follows the adoption of a motion sponsored by Hon. Jafaru Gambo Leko, who raised concerns about transparency in the handling of the estate, which was recently transferred to the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The property in question, comprising 753 duplexes and apartments, is located on Plot 109, Cadastral Zone C09, Lokogoma District, Abuja. Spanning over 150,000 square meters, the estate was forfeited to the federal government following a final order by the Federal High Court. The EFCC alleges it was acquired using proceeds of unlawful activities attributed to Emefiele.
Describing the recovery as a “milestone in Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts,” Leko said the estate, if allocated equitably, could make a meaningful contribution toward bridging Nigeria’s housing deficit, particularly in the capital.
However, he warned that without proper oversight and a clearly defined framework, the property risked being reabsorbed into the hands of the privileged elite—undermining the very purpose of asset recovery and leaving the most vulnerable excluded.
“The absence of a transparent beneficiary selection process or legislative oversight could erode public trust in the government’s anti-corruption and social welfare initiatives,” Leko told lawmakers.
He also referenced the government’s constitutional responsibility to ensure the welfare of all citizens, including the right to adequate shelter, as outlined in Chapter II of the 1999 Constitution.
Following debate, the House resolved to urge the Ministry of Housing to develop and publicly release a transparent, inclusive framework for the estate’s allocation. The plan, lawmakers said, should prioritize ordinary Nigerians, particularly those most affected by displacement and housing insecurity.
In addition, the House directed the ministry to submit a detailed report within 60 days outlining the intended use of the property, allocation criteria, and beneficiary selection process.
The Committee on Housing and Habitat has also been tasked with working alongside the ministry to monitor the process, ensuring it aligns with principles of fairness, equity, and transparency. The committee is expected to report back to the House within four weeks for further legislative consideration.
“Transparency in asset management is vital to building public trust,” Leko added. “Nigerians must see the direct benefits of recovered assets improving lives and delivering justice.”
