Ex-NNPC Topshot, Salihu Jamari Forfeited Over N3bn, Properties To FG

BY MICHAEL AKINOLA 

Justice J.O Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja on Tuesday, March 31, 2026 has granted the final forfeiture of over N3.4 billion and three properties linked to Dr. Salihu Nuhu Jamari while serving as the Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC subsidiary, Gas and Power Investment Company Limited.

The properties include an uncompleted six bedroom semi-detached duplex, with boys’ quarters at Plot 3168, Asokoro District, Abuja; a two bedroom flat, Block 2, Apartment AI, Block EFG, Osborne II, Ikoyi, Lagos and a restaurant located at Plot 102, Cadastral Zone C09, Lokogoma District, Abuja.

The judge gave the order following a motion on notice filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC on March 17, 2026 through its Counsel, Ekele Iheanacho SAN.

The Court had on February 25, 2026, granted an interim forfeiture order, directing that the publication of the same be made in a national newspaper for any interested party to show cause why the said exhibits should not be finally forfeited to the Federal Government.

The forfeited money forms part of a Case of conspiracy, kickbacks, bribery and money laundering, involving the staff and contractors of the NNPC wherein the name of Jamari featured prominently through a petition dated April 28, 2025.

Upon receipt of the petition, several investigative activities were carried out where it was discovered that Jamari, while serving as Managing Director of NGPIC, used his influence through his private companies namely: Cumulus Energy Limited and Pius and Phillips Petroleum Limited wherein he is a director and signatory to the accounts, received kickbacks from three contractors that were awarded three major projects from NNPCL.

Justice Abdulmalik, after considering the application, held that it had merit and ordered the final forfeiture of the assets to the Federal Government of Nigeria.