The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has filed a notice of appeal against a Federal High Court ruling that ordered the release of 27 houses to James Ikechukwu Okwete and Adebukunola Iyabode Oladapo.
In March, the EFCC obtained an interim forfeiture order for 27 properties located across different parts of Nigeria.
Okwete and his company, Jamec West African Limited, claimed ownership of 26 properties, while Oladapo declared an interest in one property at House No. 12, Fandriana Close, Wuse 2, Abuja.
On Wednesday, the court cautioned EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede over an alleged refusal to comply with the existing judgment mandating the immediate release of the properties.
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In response, the EFCC filed an appeal at the Court of Appeal, Abuja Division, under Suit No: FHC/ABJ/CS/348/2025. The appeal challenges the judgment of Justice Joyce Abdulmalik delivered on October 31, 2025.
Abba Mohammed, EFCC’s lead counsel, requested the Court of Appeal to grant a stay of execution on the judgment pending the hearing and determination of the appeal, filed on December 1, 2025.
Dele Oyewale, EFCC’s head of media and publicity, said the appeal also seeks “such other further orders as the Honourable Court may deem fit to make in the circumstances.”
The case is currently awaiting hearing at the Court of Appeal.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
