Section 17: Application for forfeiture order.

1 Where a preservation order is in force and before the expiration of the stipulated time, the relevant organisation may apply to the Court by way of motion of notice for a forfeiture order against all or any part of the property that is subject to the preservation order.

2 The relevant organisation shall give 14 days notice of an application under subsection (1) to every person who pursuant to the notice given under section 10 (1) of this Act had shown interest in the property sought to be forfeited.

3 A person who pursuant to the notice given under section 10 (1) of this Act may, subject to compliance with section 10(2) and (3), appear at the hearing of the application under subsection (1) to —
a oppose the making of the order; or
b apply for an order—
(i) excluding his interest in the property from the operation of the order, or
(ii) varying the operation of the order in respect of the property, and may adduce evidence at the hearing of the application.

4 Where the Court grants the forfeiture order, the property referred to in subsection (1) shall be forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria.