A recent report by the Organised Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP), titled “Dubai Unlocked,” has unveiled previously undisclosed property records in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, involving several prominent Nigerians and individuals from various countries. These records, obtained mainly from 2020 and 2022, were initially acquired by the Center for Advanced Defense Studies and later shared with E24 and OCCRP. Over 70 media outlets worldwide collaborated on this investigative project, which aims to expose alleged money laundering, drug trafficking, corruption, and other illicit activities tied to high-value assets in Dubai.
The report includes names such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu, former House of Representatives member Abubakar Garba Shehu, former Abia State Governor Orji Uzor Kalu, former Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker Adeyemi Sabitun Ikuforiji, former owner of DAMAC Maison Dubai Mall Street Cromwell Osamwonyi Idahosa, and Lawal Hassan Gummi, among others. These individuals, along with others globally, are implicated in owning properties in Dubai.
Dubai’s real estate sector has long been known for its secrecy, making it a preferred destination for individuals seeking to conceal their assets. The leaked data sheds light on the ownership of luxury properties, including high-rises and villas, by individuals with alleged criminal backgrounds or political influence. Despite the challenges in accessing Dubai’s property records, this investigation has uncovered significant details about property ownership by individuals under international scrutiny.
For instance, Atiku Abubakar and his family reportedly own multiple properties in Dubai, valued at approximately $4 million, or around N5.6 billion. Ike Ekweremadu, on the other hand, owns properties valued at over $4 million. Meanwhile, other individuals like Abubakar Garba Shehu, Adeyemi Sabitun Ikuforiji, Cromwell Osamwonyi Idahosa, Lawal Hassan Gummi, and Orji Uzor Kalu are also linked to various properties in Dubai.
Furthermore, the report highlights the legal troubles and controversies surrounding some of these individuals, including allegations of corruption, money laundering, and criminal convictions. Despite these revelations, the full extent of their involvement and the legal implications are still being investigated.