The Federal High Court in Lagos has scheduled November 1, 2024, to rule on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) application for the final forfeiture of $2.045 million, seven luxury properties, and shares linked to former Central Bank Governor Godwin Emefiele. The court will also consider Emefiele’s request to stay the proceedings, pending an appeal against the interim forfeiture order.

The EFCC, which previously obtained an interim forfeiture order on August 15, seeks to permanently seize Emefiele’s assets. At the Friday hearing, EFCC counsel Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN) argued for the final forfeiture, noting the absence of opposition. However, Emefiele’s lawyer, Olalekan Ojo (SAN), called for a suspension of proceedings, pending the outcome of Emefiele’s appeal against the interim order.

Justice Deinde Dipeolu declined the stay request, stating that the appeal could only be addressed after the final ruling on forfeiture. The November 1 decision will determine whether the assets will be permanently transferred to the Federal Government.