The Kwara State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has applauded yesterday’s ruling of the Federal High Court, sitting in Lagos which set aside its order of interim forfeiture made against the property of former Senate President, Dr Abubakar Bukola Saraki, located at 17 and 17A MacDonald Road, Ikoyi, Lagos State.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, had approached the Court to seek the permanent forfeiture of the aforementioned property to the Federal Government, alleging that they were procured with stolen funds.
But the Court, in its ruling, dismissed the Commission’s application, saying that the anti-graft agency failed to produce any evidence to substantiate its allegation.
In a statement signed by its State Publicity Secretary, Tunde Ashaolu, the Kwara PDP applauded the Court verdict and congratulated Saraki on the triumph.
The party described the court judgement as a victory for democracy, rule of law and all Nigerians who are averse to impunity, political intimidation and abuse of power.
The statement reads in part: “The pronouncement by Honourable Justice Liman of the Lagos Division of the Federal High Court that there is no sufficient basis in the EFCC application for the permanent forfeiture of Dr Saraki’s houses, further validates our belief that the suit filed by the Commission was founded on falsehood, hate and an attempt to humiliate our leader.
“The EFCC and their sponsors made a lot of noise concerning the property in question and subjected Dr Saraki to media trial but could not prove their false allegations at the court. We are happy that the Court has finally vindicated our Leader and affirmed his innocence.
“This verdict of the court is a victory for democracy, rule of law and all Nigerians that stand against impunity, political intimidation and abuse of power, which are the hallmarks of the All Progressives Congress, APC-led administration.
“We congratulate our Leader on this ruling and salute his courage, resilience and perseverance throughout the period of the legal battle. It is our prayer that he will continue to overcome every evil plot by his traducers and enemies, both at the State and Federal level.”
