Nigerian elite's extensive property holdings and capital flight in the UK and beyond
via Punch Nigeria5 min read
The article discusses the significant presence of Nigerian-owned properties in the UK, often acquired through illicit means and capital flight. The author recounts a personal experience from nearly 40 years ago in London, observing the luxurious lifestyle of a Nigerian woman and the prevalence of Nigerian property ownership. Over the decades, politically exposed Nigerians, including state governors, have been implicated in money laundering through UK property acquisitions. Notable cases include Diepreye Alamieyeseigha and James Ibori. The article highlights that London is frequently a destination for Nigerian governors, with a substantial amount of Nigerian wealth invested in English soil. Past criticisms from officials like former Minister of State for Finance Nenadi Usman, and reports such as Human Rights Watch's "Chop Fine," have addressed this issue. The problem extends beyond governors, as illustrated by the wealth of former Central Bank of Nigeria governor Paul Ogwuma in the UK. International investigations like the Panama Papers and Pandora Papers have revealed how the rich and powerful use offshore mechanisms to hide assets, with little consequence in Nigeria. More recently, a list of 58 deceased Nigerians with unclaimed assets in the UK's "Bona Vacantia" list has emerged, with the Nigerian government not informing its citizens about the claims process. The article also mentions property issues in the US involving Nigerian governors and diplomats. A 2026 investigation
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