Court orders final forfeiture of N3.4bn, properties linked to former NNPC gas company MD

The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the final forfeiture of N3.44 billion and three properties traced to Salihu Nuhu Jamari, a former Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Gas and Power Investment Company Limited (NGPIC).

Justice J.O. Abdulmalik delivered the ruling on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, following an application filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) through its counsel, Ekele Iheanacho, SAN.

The forfeited properties include an uncompleted six-bedroom semi-detached duplex with boys’ quarters at Plot 3168, Asokoro District, Abuja; a two-bedroom flat at Osborne II, Ikoyi, Lagos; and a restaurant located at Plot 102, Cadastral Zone C09, Lokogoma District, Abuja.

The court had earlier granted an interim forfeiture order on February 25, 2026, and directed the EFCC to publish the order in a national newspaper, inviting any interested party to show cause why the assets should not be permanently forfeited to the Federal Government. No such challenge was presented.

According to the EFCC, the N3.44 billion formed part of the proceeds of alleged conspiracy, kickbacks, bribery, and money laundering involving NNPC staff and contractors.

Jamari’s name reportedly featured prominently in a petition received on April 28, 2025.

Investigations revealed that while serving as MD of NGPIC, Jamari allegedly used his influence to receive kickbacks through his private companies—Cumulus Energy Limited and Pius and Phillips Petroleum Limited—both of which he is a director and signatory to their accounts.

The companies reportedly received illicit payments from contractors awarded three major NNPCL projects.

Justice Abdulmalik, after reviewing the EFCC’s motion, ruled that the application had merit and approved the final forfeiture of the assets to the Federal Government.