The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the final forfeiture of two properties linked to Aminu Garunbaba, a staff member of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), to the Federal Government. The properties, including a four-bedroom terrace maisonette in Abuja’s Wuye District and another in Kano State, were purchased through Garunbaba’s company, MYZ Venture.
Justice Obiora Egwuatu ruled that Garunbaba failed to provide legitimate documentation for the property purchases or prove that the funds used were derived from lawful earnings. The judge emphasized that public officers cannot profit from illicit activities.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had pursued the forfeiture, arguing that Garunbaba’s properties were the result of proceeds from fraudulent Duty Tour Allowance (DTA) claims made between 2017 and 2018. Garunbaba, along with colleagues, conspired to claim non-existent travel allowances, siphoning millions from FIRS. The funds were then shared among the conspirators, with Garunbaba personally receiving over N341 million.
The EFCC’s investigation also revealed Garunbaba’s conversion of part of the funds into US dollars through a Bureau De Change operator, further obscuring the illicit nature of his wealth. The court’s decision to finalize the forfeiture of the properties marks a significant victory in the fight against corruption in public office.
