A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has ordered the interim forfeiture of three properties linked to Hon. Uchenna Erondu, a member of the Abia State House of Assembly and former aide to the ex-governor of the state, over allegations of money laundering and diversion of public funds amounting to a staggering N28 billion. This move comes following an ex-parte motion filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Presided over by Justice Emeka Nwite, the court granted the EFCC's application, directing that the properties in question be temporarily seized by the Federal Government pending the outcome of further investigations and potential prosecution. The ruling also mandated that a notice be published in the Daily Trust Newspaper and on the EFCC’s official website within 14 days. This is to allow any interested parties the opportunity to present reasons why the assets should not be permanently forfeited.
The properties under scrutiny include a four-bedroom bungalow located at Plot 6/31, Ukaegbu Layout in Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State, valued at N409 million; a three-bedroom bungalow at the same address worth N300 million; and a five-bedroom bungalow situated in the upscale Guzape area of Abuja, valued at N500 million. Combined, the three properties are estimated to be worth N1.2 billion.
In the motion filed by the EFCC on April 16 and supported by an affidavit sworn by an EFCC operative, Samson Oloje, the commission alleged that Erondu is linked to multiple financial offences. These include criminal conspiracy, abuse of office, diversion of public funds, impersonation, and money laundering. The case was reportedly initiated through intelligence obtained by the anti-graft agency.
According to the affidavit, the EFCC had received a report that prompted a full-scale investigation into the financial dealings of Erondu. It stated that the assets listed were suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activities and that preserving them was crucial until all investigations were concluded. Attached to the affidavit were documents and statements connected to the transactions and individuals involved, which the EFCC submitted as Exhibit EFCC-1.
Oloje stressed in the affidavit that granting the request for interim forfeiture would serve the interests of justice and ensure that the properties remain intact during the investigative process. He explained that the assets are being looked into as they are allegedly tied to fraudulent transfers, abuse of office, and the unlawful enrichment of public officials through state resources.
Justice Nwite, after reviewing the materials submitted and listening to the EFCC’s counsel, ruled in favour of the commission and adjourned the matter to 26 May for a report on compliance and any responses to the public notice.
Hon. Erondu currently represents the Obingwa West Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly. This development has stirred significant public attention, adding a new dimension to the ongoing efforts by the EFCC to tackle high-profile corruption and ensure accountability in public service.
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