The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to allocate the forfeited Abuja estate linked to former Central Bank Governor, 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 Jafaru Gambo Leko titled “Need for Transparent and Equitable Allocation of Forfeited Abuja Estate handed over to the Ministry of Housing by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).”
Leko explained that the estate, comprising 753 duplexes and apartments, sits on Plot 109, Cadastral Zone C09, Lokogoma District, Abuja. The EFCC recently handed the property over to the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development after a final forfeiture order issued by the Federal High Court.
He stated that the estate, covering more than 150,000 square metres, was allegedly built with proceeds of unlawful activities linked to Emefiele. Its recovery, he added, represents “a major milestone in Nigeria’s anti-corruption drive.”
According to the lawmaker, proper management of the estate could significantly help reduce Nigeria’s acute housing deficit, particularly in Abuja. However, he expressed concern that without a transparent and accountable allocation process, the property could end up benefiting “privileged elites,” thereby undermining the purpose of asset recovery and denying ordinary citizens access to affordable housing.
Leko also warned that the lack of a public beneficiary selection process or legislative oversight could “erode citizens’ confidence in the government’s anti-corruption and social welfare efforts.” He reminded the House of the constitutional duty of all levels of government to ensure citizens’ welfare, including adequate housing, as stated in Chapter II of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
Following deliberations, the House urged the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development to create and publish a transparent and inclusive framework for the estate’s allocation. The framework, lawmakers said, must prioritise low- and middle-income earners, IDPs, and vulnerable groups.
The Ministry was also directed to submit a detailed report to the House within 60 days, outlining the intended use, allocation criteria, and selection process for beneficiaries.
Additionally, the House mandated its Committee on Housing and Habitat to work with the ministry to ensure the allocation process upholds fairness, equity, and transparency, and to report back within four weeks for further legislative action.
“Transparency in asset management is essential for building public trust,” Leko said. “Nigerians must see tangible benefits from recovered assets improving their lives.”