The Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned to October 6 for definite hearing in the suit filed by Nigeria’s former Petroleum Minister, Deziani Alison-Madueke, challenging the forfeiture of her assets to the federal government.
Justice Mohammed Umar fixed the date on Monday after all parties confirmed the filing and regularisation of court processes. The delay followed the service of two fresh motions to Alison-Madueke’s legal team, which her counsel, Mr. Godwin Inyinbor, confirmed had been responded to.
Counsel for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Mofesomo Oyetibo, SAN, who appeared for the first time in the matter, also confirmed receipt of responses.
Following procedural clarifications, Justice Umar set October 6, 2025, as the new date for a definitive hearing.
Alison-Madueke Challenges EFCC’s Sale of Forfeited Assets
The suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/21/2023, was filed by Alison-Madueke to contest the public notice by the EFCC for the sale of her properties, which she claims were seized without proper jurisdiction or fair hearing.
Among her core arguments:
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She was never served with a charge sheet, summons, or proof of evidence.
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The forfeiture orders violated her constitutional right to fair hearing under Section 36(1) of the 1999 Constitution.
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The court was allegedly misled through suppression of vital facts.
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She is requesting that the forfeiture orders and EFCC’s public sale notice be voided.
Her legal team is also asking for an extension of time to formally apply to set aside the forfeiture orders.
EFCC Defends Legal Procedure and Sale
The EFCC, in its defense, insists that:
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Due legal process was followed in securing final forfeiture orders.
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The properties were legally disposed of based on valid court rulings dating back to 2017.
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The orders had not been overturned on appeal, making them binding and enforceable.
The anti-corruption agency is urging the court to dismiss the suit, maintaining that the assets were lawfully acquired and disposed of following judicial approval.
