By Erewunmi Peace

A Federal High Court sitting in Lagos has ordered the interim forfeiture of a hotel in Ogun State allegedly linked to a fleeing drug baron, following an application filed by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

Justice Daniel Osiagor granted the order after reviewing evidence presented by the NDLEA, which claimed that the hotel—identified as Rockford Hotel—was acquired with proceeds from illicit drug trafficking activities. The suspect, Akeem Adekanbi, who is believed to be the owner of the property, is reportedly at large.

According to the NDLEA, investigations revealed that the hotel and its appurtenances were allegedly funded through proceeds of criminal operations connected to narcotics. The agency therefore sought the court’s approval to secure the property pending further investigations and legal action, in line with the Proceeds of Crime (Recovery and Management) Act, 2022.

The court’s order places the hotel under temporary government control, pending the conclusion of the case. The interim forfeiture does not amount to a final conviction but serves as a preventive measure to stop the disposal or misuse of the asset while legal proceedings continue.

The case has been adjourned for further hearing, as authorities intensify efforts to locate the fleeing suspect.