Court Orders Forfeiture Of Properties, Funds Linked To Former Zamfara Governor

A Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the interim forfeiture of about 10 properties and funds in banks allegedly owned by a former Zamfara Governor Abdulaziz Yari.

The order was given after an ex-parte application was filed by a lawyer to the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC), Osuobeni Ekoi Akponimisingha.

Justice Obiora Egwuatu said the interim order granted on Wednesday February 23, would last for 60 days to enable the ICPC to conclude its investigation. After its expiration, the commission can apply for final forfeiture.

The ICPC was directed to publicise the order for any person or persons with interest in the affected properties to show cause within 14 days, why they should not be permanently forfeited to the Federal Government.

Some of the properties, according to the ICPC, are in Maryland (USA), Abuja, Kaduna, among others.