EBUKA & DOZIE EZE FORFEITS 20 HOUSES AND 10 CARS TO BILLONAIRE, ARTHUR EZE

(Authur Eze)

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has achieved a significant legal victory. The Court of Appeal in Abuja has ordered the final forfeiture of an array of assets to Arthur Eze, a prominent businessman. This order includes 20 properties, 10 vehicles, and three luxury wristwatches, which were in the possession of brothers Olisaebuka and Onyeka Nnadozie Eze. The court's decision, delivered on June 7, 2024, by a panel of three justices, marks a pivotal moment in a case that has been unfolding since 2020.

The properties, all situated in the prestigious Federal Capital Territory of Abuja, are believed to have been purchased with funds misappropriated from Arthur Eze. These properties range from a seven-bedroom duplex in the Mabushi District to multiple plots of land in various prime locations within the city. The vehicles include models from Toyota, Honda, Mercedes Benz, and a Kia SUV, showcasing a fleet that reflects both luxury and utility. The wristwatches, including a golden Piaget, are symbols of opulence and were also deemed to be bought with illicit funds.

The forfeiture was affirmed after the brothers' appeal was dismissed by the court. They had failed to provide sufficient evidence to prove the legitimate acquisition of the said assets. Justice H.A. Barka, who read the judgment, emphasized that the appellants did not present any material that could challenge the findings of the lower court. Consequently, the appeal was deemed to lack merit and was dismissed, upholding the judgment of the lower court.

This legal battle traces its roots back to a petition filed by Arthur Eze in 2020. He accused Olisaebuka Eze, the administrative officer of his company, Oranto Petroleum Ltd, of theft, criminal misappropriation, and money laundering

. According to the petition, Olisaebuka, in collusion with his brother Nnadozie, siphoned off billions of naira and millions of dollars belonging to Arthur Eze. These funds were allegedly used to acquire the contested properties in Abuja and Enugu.