The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has filed a notice of appeal challenging a Federal High Court judgment that ordered the release of 27 houses to businessman James Ikechukwu Okwete and his company, Jamec West Africa Limited.
The judgment, delivered on 31 October 2025 by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja, directed that the properties seized by the EFCC be returned to Okwete. Dissatisfied with the decision, the Commission has taken the matter to the Court of Appeal, Abuja Division.
In its notice of appeal, filed on 1 December 2025 and referenced Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/348/2025, EFCC counsel Abba Mohammed, SAN, requested two key orders from the appellate court.
First, the EFCC is asking for:
“An order staying execution of the judgment of the Federal High Court delivered on 31 October 2025 pending the hearing and determination of the appeal filed on 1 December 2025.”
Second, the Commission is seeking:
“Such other further orders as the Honourable Court may deem fit in the circumstances.”
In a statement issued by the EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, the agency confirmed that the appeal became necessary to prevent the 27 properties from being handed over while the legal challenge is ongoing.
By approaching the Court of Appeal, the EFCC aims to ensure that the disputed assets remain preserved until the appeal is fully resolved, underscoring the significance the Commission places on the case.
The matter now awaits the assignment of a hearing date by the Court of Appeal.
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