Dasukigate: Ex-Minister, Obanikoro slams N100m lawsuit against EFCC

Former Minister of State for Defence, Sen. Musiliu Obanikoro, has dragged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, before a Lagos Federal High Court over seizure of his property.

In the suit, Obanikoro is seeking a court declaration that the forceful seizure of his property constitutes a gross violation of his rights.

He also seeks an “unreserved public apology”, as well as N100m as general damages against the commission.

Obanikoro prayed the court for an order, setting aside the forceful detention of his family property on June 14, 2016.

The anti-graft agency had seized the former Minister’s property, following his indictment in the slush funds allegedly misappropriated by the Office of the former National Security Addviser, Col Sambo Dasuki(rtd)

EFCC had alleged that the junior Minister used his companies to receive suspicious payments from ONSA.

However, the Minister’s lawyer, Lawal Pedro during today’s hearing on the matter claimed that the commission violated Regulation 13 of the EFCC (Enforcement Regulation) 2010, which provides that it shall “apply and obtain” a court order to enter and search any premises.

After listening to the submission, the trial judge, Justice Abdulazeez Anka adjourned the matter till March 28 for ruling.

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