The Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) has recorded a major milestone in Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts, securing its first international asset forfeiture involving a property located in the United Kingdom.
The development was disclosed in a statement released in Abuja on Thursday on behalf of the CCB Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Bello, by Dr. Fatima Ahmed-Kere, Acting Director of Proceeds of Crime Recovery and Management.
According to the bureau, the forfeited asset is a high-value property situated at 79 Randall Avenue, Neasden, London, which was linked to the estate of the late Gen. Jeremiah Useni, a former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
The CCB confirmed that the Federal High Court in Abuja had issued a final forfeiture order transferring ownership of the property to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Describing the ruling as a landmark achievement, the bureau said it represents a significant step forward in Nigeria’s efforts to recover illicit assets held abroad.
The agency emphasized that the judgment reinforces the principle that individuals cannot shield unlawfully acquired wealth by moving it across borders.
To facilitate the recovery process, the CCB disclosed that it has engaged the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation to activate Mutual Legal Assistance (MLA) procedures between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.
This process is expected to enable UK authorities to recognize and enforce the Nigerian court’s decision, paving the way for the lawful disposal of the property.
The bureau also stated that the proceeds from the asset will be repatriated to Nigeria in line with international asset recovery protocols.
According to the CCB, the successful forfeiture demonstrates that assets obtained through abuse of public office are no longer beyond reach, even when hidden overseas.
The agency attributed the breakthrough to its renewed commitment to intelligence-driven investigations and stronger collaboration with international partners.
It added that the case marks a new phase in Nigeria’s anti-corruption framework, where accountability extends beyond national borders.
Reaffirming its mandate, the bureau pledged to continue enforcing asset declaration laws and intensifying efforts to prevent corruption and illicit enrichment among public officials.
