The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has categorically denied any political motivations behind its ongoing investigation of businesswoman and socialite, Aisha Achimugu. The commission emphasized that Achimugu is being investigated solely for alleged criminal conspiracy and money laundering, and that the investigation has no connection whatsoever to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar or Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, contrary to some media reports. The EFCC stressed its commitment to conducting its investigations impartially and urged the public to trust in its professionalism.
The investigation into Achimugu’s alleged financial crimes began in 2022. However, she obtained a court injunction that temporarily halted the EFCC’s investigative process. This legal barrier prevented the commission from arresting, investigating, inviting, or detaining her in connection with the alleged offenses. The injunction remained in effect until February 19, 2025, when a Federal High Court in Abuja vacated it, paving the way for the EFCC to resume its investigation.
With the court’s decision, the EFCC is now free to pursue its investigation into Achimugu’s alleged involvement in criminal conspiracy and money laundering. The court’s ruling not only lifted the injunction but also upheld the interim forfeiture of assets suspected to be proceeds of the alleged crimes. Achimugu’s legal challenge to the forfeiture was dismissed by the court for lack of merit. This underscores the strength of the EFCC’s case and the evidence supporting its suspicions of illicitly acquired assets.
The EFCC’s public statement serves to clarify its position and dispel any speculation regarding political influence in the Achimugu investigation. The commission reaffirmed that its focus remains solely on the alleged financial crimes and that the investigation is proceeding according to established legal procedures. By addressing these rumors, the EFCC aims to maintain public trust and demonstrate its unwavering commitment to combating financial crimes irrespective of any individual’s political affiliations.
The commission’s declaration that Achimugu is wanted underscores the seriousness of the allegations against her and the EFCC’s determination to bring her to justice. This public declaration is a crucial step in the investigative process, as it allows law enforcement agencies and the public to assist in locating and apprehending her. The EFCC is likely to leverage all available resources to ensure Achimugu is brought before the court to answer the charges against her.
The case against Aisha Achimugu serves as a reminder of the EFCC’s mandate to combat financial crimes and corruption within Nigeria. By pursuing this investigation diligently and transparently, the commission aims to uphold the rule of law and send a clear message that financial crimes will not be tolerated. The outcome of this case will be closely watched, as it has the potential to set a precedent for future investigations and reinforce the EFCC’s role in safeguarding Nigeria’s financial integrity. The commission’s commitment to professionalism and impartiality is crucial for maintaining public confidence in its ability to effectively tackle corruption.
