The Federal Capital Territory Internal Revenue Service (FCT-IRS) is seeking a strategic partnership with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to enhance tax compliance and boost revenue generation in the nation’s capital.

During a courtesy visit to EFCC’s Corporate Headquarters, FCT-IRS Acting Executive Chairman, Michael Ango, emphasized the need for collaboration, given the crucial roles both agencies play in financial accountability and governance.
He highlighted that harmonizing revenue collection and administration is a key priority for 2025, ensuring transparency and efficiency in tax collection.
Ango also proposed that the EFCC integrate tax compliance checks into its investigations, noting that many financial crime suspects often evade tax obligations.
“If they escape through one door, we can catch them through another,” he stated, suggesting that tax compliance could be linked to asset forfeitures and financial crime investigations.
In response, EFCC Chairman, Olanipekun Olukoyede, welcomed the proposal and expressed readiness to formalize the partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). He acknowledged the impact of effective revenue utilization in the FCT, commending the ongoing infrastructural developments under FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.

The collaboration between FCT-IRS and EFCC is expected to tighten tax enforcement, ensuring that individuals and businesses fulfill their financial obligations, ultimately strengthening the economy of the FCT.

The trial of former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello over alleged ₦110 billion fraud has been adjourned to April 3, April 24, and May 6, 2025, following a contentious court session at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court on Wednesday.
Justice Maryann Anenih made the ruling after hearing arguments from both the prosecution and defense, with the session dominated by disputes over the availability of key documents and the introduction of a surprise witness.
At the heart of the courtroom drama was a heated exchange between the legal teams.
The lead defence counsel, Joseph Daudu, SAN, accused the prosecution of withholding critical evidence, including the sworn statements of the second defendant.
According to Daudu, the defence was blindsided by the prosecution’s witness, Fabian Nworah, a property developer, whom they had no prior knowledge of. He argued that the prosecution was turning the legal process into a “hide and seek” game, depriving the defense of a fair opportunity to prepare for cross-examination.
Similarly, Abubakar Aliyu, SAN, representing the third defendant, demanded access to forensic reports and digital evidence mentioned in the case filings. He argued that the prosecution’s failure to provide these documents raised concerns about transparency and due process.
However, prosecution counsel Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, dismissed these objections, insisting that all required evidence had been served on the defence as far back as November 27. He accused the defence of employing delay tactics and emphasized that the prosecution was under no obligation to provide every document unless formally requested.
Despite the defence’s objections, the court proceeded with the testimony of Fabian Nworah, Chairman of EFAB Property Nigeria Ltd.
Nworah detailed how his company sold a high-value property at No. 1 Ikogosi Street, Maitama, Abuja, to Shehu Bello for ₦550 million. However, months later, Bello returned the property documents, claiming the EFCC was investigating the transaction and demanding a refund.
EFAB Property initially declined to reimburse the money but later complied after the EFCC directed the company to return the funds to a designated account. The refund was processed in two instalments.

Interestingly, Nworah noted that while he had dealt directly with Shehu Bello, the official name on the transaction documents was Dr. Bello Ohiani, raising further questions about the true ownership and intent behind the purchase.
The trial is expected to resume in April, with the defence likely to continue pressing for access to key documents while the prosecution pushes forward with its case.
The case promises to be one of the most closely watched legal battles in recent Nigerian history.

In a landmark gesture, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, has approved and signed more than 1,000 Certificates of Occupancy (C-of-Os) for homeowners in the prestigious River Park Estate, Abuja.
The move has been hailed as a game-changer for real estate investment in the nation’s capital.
At a ceremony on Saturday, the estate’s developer, Mr. Paul Odili, handed over the certificates to jubilant homeowners.
He praised the minister’s swift action, describing it as a vote of confidence in Abuja’s real estate sector.
“The Honourable Minister of the FCT has done something unprecedented by signing over a thousand C-of-Os at once,” Odili said. “This gesture will undoubtedly encourage more investment in real estate and strengthen trust among stakeholders.”
Odili emphasized the importance of transparency in the issuance process. “These certificates were entrusted to us by the FCT administration, and it was vital to show that they have been delivered to the rightful beneficiaries. This is not just about houses, it’s about securing people’s investments and dreams,” he noted.
In a significant development, Odili also announced his full acquisition of the estate, previously co-owned by international partners.
Houses for Africa Holdings, led by John Townley-Johnson, and Jonah Capital Limited, founded by Adrian Ogun, have sold their stakes to Odili.

Confirming the transfer, Townley-Johnson said, “We are confident that Mr. Odili’s leadership will take the estate to greater heights.
He has the expertise and vision to deliver on the promises made to homeowners.”
Ogun echoed similar sentiments, highlighting his long-standing partnership with Odili and expressing trust in his ability to maintain high standards in the estate.

For many beneficiaries, the event marked the culmination of years of effort and hope. Engr. Benjamin Ogwuche, President of KRPC Cooperative Society, Kaduna, said, “This is a monumental day for us. Our members now have the peace of mind that comes with legal ownership of over 100 properties here.”

Another recipient, Mr. Daniel Okoebor, expressed his excitement. “Holding this certificate in my hands today means my investment is secure. It’s a validation of my trust in this estate,” he said.
Odili highlighted the broader implications of the minister’s actions, noting that the issuance of the certificates would inspire more confidence in Nigeria’s real estate sector. “This is a strong message to investors that Abuja is open for business, and the FCT administration is committed to creating a conducive environment for growth,” he stated.

The ceremony concluded with optimism, as stakeholders applauded Wike’s leadership and expressed hope that similar initiatives would be extended to other estates across the FCT.

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