FG raises alarm over fraudulent sale of recovered Emefiele-linked 753-unit estate

The Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development has issued a strong warning to the public, clarifying that it has not begun the sale of the recently recovered 753-unit housing estate linked to former Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, Godwin Emefiele.

This alert comes in response to reports that fraudsters are targeting unsuspecting Nigerians with fake offers, demanding up to ₦500,000 for fraudulent “Expression of Interest” forms.

The scammers falsely claim to have connections within the ministry and promise buyers preferential access to housing slots.

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In a public statement, the ministry urged Nigerians to be vigilant and avoid falling victim to these fraudulent schemes. It also emphasized that any official sale or allocation process will be transparently announced through recognized government channels.

The 753-unit estate, recovered in December 2024 by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), is the largest single asset recovery since the agency’s inception.

In a statement signed by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Badamasi Haiba, the ministry clarified that it only recently took custody of the property from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), in line with directives from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“The ministry is yet to begin any sale process. As directed by Mr. President, the estate will be completed, infrastructure provided, and a proper disposal strategy announced in due course,” the statement read.

Housing Minister Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa has announced plans to establish a technical committee to assess the structural integrity of the buildings, evaluate infrastructure needs, and advise on a suitable approach for disposal.

The ministry emphasised that any future sale will be publicly announced and conducted with transparency and accountability, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Members of the public have been advised to ignore unofficial offers and make inquiries only through the Ministry’s Public Building and Housing Development departments or its Press and Public Relations unit.

“We urge Nigerians to remain vigilant and avoid falling prey to fraudsters,” the ministry stated.