The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has addressed the backlash over its refusal to name the owner of 753 forfeited duplexes and apartments in the Lokogoma District of Abuja, which the agency described as its largest asset recovery to date.
The EFCC announced the forfeiture on Monday, claiming the properties belonged to a former government official.
However, the agency’s decision to withhold the individual’s identity sparked widespread criticism from Nigerians.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by its spokesman, Dele Oyewale, the EFCC clarified its position, citing ongoing investigations as the reason for the non-disclosure.
“It is important to note that the substantive criminal investigation on the matter still continues,” the statement read.
“It will be unprofessional of the EFCC to go to town by mentioning names of individuals whose identities were not directly linked to any title document of the properties.”
Oyewale assured the public of the EFCC’s commitment to transparency and accountability, reiterating the agency’s stance of leaving no sacred cows in its fight against corruption.
“The EFCC is unwavering in its no-sacred-cow approach to every matter, and together we will make Nigeria greater,” he added.
The properties, located on Plot 109 Cadastral Zone C09 in Lokogoma District, were forfeited following a court ruling that deemed them proceeds of unlawful activities.
