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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Tuesday took into custody Aisha Achimugu, widely reported as Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s alleged side chick, at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja. Achimugu had been on the EFCC’s wanted list since March in relation to an alleged criminal conspiracy and money-laundering scheme.
Arrest Triggered by Federal High Court Order
Justice I. E. Ekwo of the Federal High Court (Abuja Division) issued a directive on April 28, 2025, compelling Achimugu to:
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- Appear before the EFCC on April 29, 2025
- Report back to court on April 30, 2025
The order arose from Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/626/2025, in which Achimugu challenged her designation as a wanted person by multiple agencies, including the EFCC, ICPC, SSS and the Nigeria Police Force.
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Key Allegations Against the “Side Chick”
EFCC investigations have uncovered a complex web of suspicious transactions linked to Achimugu’s firm, Oceangate Engineering Oil and Gas Ltd.:
- ₦8.71 billion inflow labeled as an “investment fund” for oil-block acquisition
- Purchase of Shallow Water PPL 3007 and Deep Offshore PPL 302-DO for US $25.3 million
- Large cash payments routed through bureau de change operators
- 136 bank accounts across ten financial institutions, with unverified sources
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Investigators allege the funds cannot be traced to legitimate business revenue, raising red flags of money laundering and criminal conspiracy.
Political Finance Controversy
Reports from the Peoples Gazette suggest that, via Achimugu, public funds were diverted to:
- Peter Obi of the Labour Party
- Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party
If substantiated, these claims could expose illicit campaign-financing practices and implicate high-ranking officials.
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EFCC’s Position and Legal Maneuvers
EFCC counsel Ekele Iheanacho filed a counter-affidavit from investigator Chris Odofin detailing:
- The rationale for issuing the initial invitation on February 12, 2024
- Administrative bail granted to Achimugu and her subsequent failure to return
- The EFCC’s view that the fundamental-rights suit was an attempt to stall the probe
A previous suit (No. FHC/ABJ/CS/451/2024) challenging the EFCC’s actions was dismissed, reinforcing the commission’s mandate to pursue criminal investigations unhindered.
What Happens Next?
- Return to Court: Achimugu will face Justice Ekwo on April 30, 2025.
- Further EFCC Hearings: The agency will present evidence of alleged money-laundering and conspiracy.
- Potential Asset Freezes: Pending outcomes, the EFCC may move to freeze identified bank accounts.
Broader Implications
- Anti-Corruption Drive: The arrest signals the EFCC’s readiness to target high-profile individuals.
- Political Fallout: Allegations of siphoning public funds for opposition campaigns could destabilize current power structures.
- Governance Questions: The scandal raises concerns over transparency and accountability in office.
Editor’s Note
The detention of Aisha Achimugu—the governor’s alleged side chick—at Abuja airport marks a significant moment in Nigeria’s ongoing battle against money laundering and political corruption. As the EFCC’s investigation unfolds, the outcomes will test the resilience of legal institutions and the country’s commitment to political integrity.
TJ News Nigeria, Source: EFCC Press Release
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