Court adjourns Sylva asset forfeiture case to July 16

The Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned the asset forfeiture proceedings against former Bayelsa State Governor Timipre Sylva to July 16. The case involves nine properties allegedly linked to Sylva, who also served as Minister of State for Petroleum Resources.

The adjournment was granted by Justice Obiora Egwuatu after the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) counsel, Oluwaleke Atolagbe, could not present a report of compliance with an interim forfeiture order. The court had initially ordered the interim forfeiture of the properties on April 24, following an ex parte motion by the EFCC.

As part of the interim order, the court directed the publication of the forfeiture notice in national newspapers, allowing interested parties 14 days to show cause why the assets should not be permanently forfeited. The properties are located in prime areas of Abuja, including Maitama, Wuse II, Garki, Mpape, and Dakibiyu.

During the resumed hearing, various legal representatives appeared for parties connected to different properties. While approximately six parties have filed affidavits to show cause, Atolagbe noted that three properties remain unclaimed. These unclaimed assets include a 10-unit block of flats in Wuse Zone 4 and a six-unit block of flats at No. 1, Mubi Close.