EFCC Arrests Businesswoman Aisha Achimugu Over Money Laundering Allegations
High-Profile Arrest at Abuja Airport
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) apprehended Aisha Achimugu, CEO of Felak Concept Group, on Tuesday morning at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. The arrest followed allegations of money laundering and financial fraud related to her business activities.
Video credit to: TVC News Nigeria
Voluntary Surrender After Court Order
The arrest occurred less than 24 hours after a Federal High Court in Abuja ordered Achimugu to honor her commitment to surrender to EFCC investigators. Her lawyer, Chikaosolu Ojukwu (SAN), confirmed the arrest and stated his client had initiated a hunger strike in protest.
Background of the Case
EFCC had declared Achimugu wanted on March 28 for alleged involvement in:
- Criminal conspiracy
- Money laundering
- Corruption
- Possession of unlawfully acquired property
The charges relate to the controversial MBA Trading and Capital Limited scheme.
Court Proceedings and EFCC Allegations
During Monday’s hearing, Justice Inyang Ekwo ordered Achimugu to appear before EFCC on Tuesday and report back to court on Wednesday. EFCC counsel Ekene Iheanacho (SAN) revealed that Achimugu had previously violated administrative bail conditions.
Key EFCC Allegations
The anti-graft agency’s court filings allege:
- N8.71 billion passed through Achimugu’s corporate accounts for oil bloc acquisitions
- $25.3 million used to acquire oil blocs through Bureau de Change operators
- Bribes allegedly paid to Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission officials
- 136 bank accounts operated across ten different banks
Defense Claims and Political Connections
Achimugu’s legal team maintains her initial absence from EFCC summons was due to medical treatment in the UK. Associates suggest the investigation may be politically motivated, noting her connection to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
The case continues to develop as EFCC prepares to present Achimugu before the court on Wednesday to report on her cooperation with investigators.
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