Court Orders EFCC, Zenith Bank to Pay ₦4m Over Unlawful Account Freeze

The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory has ruled in favor of Rebecca Omokamo Godwin-Isaac and Homadil Realty Limited, declaring that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) acted unlawfully in freezing the company’s bank account.

Delivering judgment on April 23, 2026, Justice M. A. Hassan held that the EFCC exceeded its powers by directing Zenith Bank to maintain a “post no debit” restriction without first obtaining a court order.

The case was filed under Suit No. FCT/HC/CV/830/2025.The court emphasized that while the EFCC may impose an initial restriction, any extension requires judicial approval.

Justice Hassan described the Commission’s actions as a “blatant violation” of Homadil Realty’s constitutional right to property, stressing that Nigeria’s institutions must operate within the rule of law.

The dispute originated from a petition linked to property plots in Guzape and Katampe, but Rebecca’s cross petition raised concerns about the roles of Colleen Mero Yesufu, Richard John Idakwogi of Rychado Homes Ltd, and Samuel I. Chime.

The ruling noted that repeated actions against Homadil Realty created the appearance of a targeted campaign rather than a balanced investigation.

As a result, the EFCC was ordered to pay ₦2 million in damages, while Zenith Bank was directed to pay another ₦2 million for acting on the unlawful directives, bringing total compensation to ₦4 million.

For Rebecca and Homadil Realty, the judgment represents both a personal victory and a broader affirmation that no institution is above the law.

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