Malami’s forfeited Kano residence deserted, but hotel running

A residential property in Kano linked to former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, now stands deserted following its forfeiture to the federal government. However, a hotel also associated with the former minister continues its operations, presenting a contrast in the handling of seized assets.

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All I can tell you is that we are still in operation. I cannot tell you anything more than that.

The Federal High Court, presided over by Judge Joyce Abdulmalik, granted the forfeiture application filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The court ruled that Mr. Malami and other claimants failed to demonstrate the lawful acquisition of the assets, which are estimated by PREMIUM TIMES to be worth N180.4 billion. These seized properties, including hotels, a university, malls, and residential houses across several states, were alleged by the EFCC to have been acquired with proceeds of unlawful activities during Malami's tenure from 2015 to 2023.

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I was briefed at the station about the final forfeiture of the hotel to the federal government, and I was told that they are coming any moment from now to take over the facility.

Despite the forfeiture order covering 57 assets, the judge released nine, stating the EFCC did not convincingly prove their illegitimate acquisition. Among the properties affected are those belonging to Malami's family members and various corporate entities. In Kano, Zeenoor Hotels Ltd, one of the forfeited properties, was observed to be bustling with activity. Reception officials confirmed the hotel is still operational, though unwilling to comment further. Security personnel at the hotel indicated awareness of the forfeiture and the impending takeover by federal authorities. Meanwhile, the residential property at No. 9 Ahmadu Bello Way in Kano has been deserted and is secured by mobile police officers.

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the commission was gradually taking over the properties following