Paragraph 1: The Triumphant Return: Fayose Acquitted of All Charges
Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, experienced a resounding legal victory on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, as the Federal High Court in Lagos discharged and acquitted him of all charges related to a ₦6.9 billion money laundering and theft case. Presiding Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke ruled in favor of Fayose’s no-case submission, declaring that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had failed to establish a prima facie case against him. The court found that the prosecution’s evidence did not directly link Fayose to the alleged financial improprieties, therefore, the case against him collapsed. This judgment marks a significant turning point in Fayose’s protracted legal battle, which began with his initial arraignment in 2018 before Justice Mojisola Olatoregun, later transferred to Justice Aneke.
Paragraph 2: A Celebration of Freedom: Amala with the Working Class
Following his acquittal, Fayose chose a unique and down-to-earth way to celebrate his legal victory. He shared a meal of amala, a popular Nigerian staple food, with construction workers at a site. This gesture of solidarity with the working class resonated strongly with many, portraying him as a man of the people. The moment was captured in a video posted online by Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. The video quickly gained widespread attention, further solidifying the narrative of Fayose’s triumphant return and connection with the common man.
Paragraph 3: The Allegations and the Prosecution’s Unraveling Case
The EFCC’s case against Fayose revolved around allegations of financial misconduct during his 2014 gubernatorial campaign. The prosecution accused him of receiving ₦1.2 billion in campaign funds through illicit means. Furthermore, they alleged that Fayose had received $5 million in cash from Musiliu Obanikoro, the former Minister of State for Defence, without following due financial procedures by bypassing established financial institutions. However, throughout the legal proceedings, the EFCC struggled to present compelling evidence to substantiate these claims. The defense successfully argued that the prosecution’s case lacked concrete proof directly implicating Fayose in the alleged crimes.
Paragraph 4: A Legal Battle Spanning Years: From Olatoregun to Aneke
Fayose’s legal journey began in 2018 when he was first arraigned before Justice Mojisola Olatoregun. The case subsequently experienced a transfer to Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke’s court. This transition is not uncommon in legal proceedings, often occurring due to factors such as judicial reassignments, caseload management, or requests from either the prosecution or defense. Over the years, the case saw numerous adjournments, legal arguments, and presentation of evidence before reaching its culmination with Justice Aneke’s ruling in Fayose’s favor.
Paragraph 5: The Significance of the No-Case Submission
The legal strategy employed by Fayose’s defense team hinged on the “no-case submission.” This legal maneuver argues that the prosecution has failed to present sufficient evidence to warrant a response from the defense. In essence, it asserts that even if all the prosecution’s evidence were accepted as true, it would still not prove the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Justice Aneke’s acceptance of the no-case submission underscores the perceived weakness in the EFCC’s case. The judge agreed that the evidence presented did not meet the threshold required to compel Fayose to defend himself against the charges.
Paragraph 6: Implications and Future Directions
Fayose’s acquittal has significant implications for his political career and public image. The removal of these legal burdens allows him to move forward without the cloud of ongoing prosecution. The public perception of his victory, particularly his chosen method of celebration, may further bolster his image as a man connected to the grassroots. While the EFCC has the option to appeal the ruling, the current judgment stands as a major vindication for Fayose. It remains to be seen how this legal victory will shape his future political engagements and his overall standing within the Nigerian political landscape.
