The Federal High Court in Abuja has mandated the final forfeiture of NOK University and all its assets, which have been linked to Anthony Hassan, a former Director of Finance and Accounts at the Federal Ministry of Health.
This decision follows a 2022 ruling on an ex parte motion, identified as FHC/ABJ/CS/688/2022, filed by Ekele Iheanacho, counsel for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The earlier ruling had temporarily forfeited the institution to the federal government.
The EFCC accused Hassan of diverting public funds to acquire these assets. The commission’s allegations included the diversion of billions of naira through the Government Integrated Financial Management Information System (GIFMIS), an IT-based system for accounting and budget management aimed at modernizing fiscal processes.
In a statement released on Saturday, the EFCC confirmed it had filed for the final forfeiture of the properties. The EFCC stated that Iheanacho presented evidence that Hassan used proceeds from unlawful activities to establish NOK University.
The forfeited university assets include the Senate building, ICT building, Faculty of Medicine building, Science Deanery building, two academic buildings, a faculty hall, and other structures. Additionally, the court ordered the interim forfeiture of Gwasmyen Water Factory, Gwasmyen Event Centre, and Gwasmyen International Hotel, all reportedly linked to Hassan.
“The Commission, through its investigative officer, Adaora Asabe Oragudosi, investigated verified intelligence on criminal conspiracy, stealing, abuse of office, and money laundering against some staff of the Federal Ministry of Health, tracing the properties to the defendant,” the EFCC statement read.
On Friday, the court concluded that Hassan failed to present sufficient evidence to counter the charges, leading to the final forfeiture order.
Micheal has over 5 years experience in digital journalism. He’s a New Media Expert with an interest in Human Development and Global Politics.
