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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Felak Concept Group, Aisha Achimugu, over allegations of money laundering.
Achimugu was apprehended by EFCC operatives at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja around 5am on Tuesday upon her arrival from London.
Her lawyer, Chikaosolu Ojukwu, confirmed the arrest, noting that his client had since embarked on a hunger strike.
“She arrived voluntarily and was arrested by the EFCC. She has immediately gone on hunger strike,” Ojukwu stated. “Like Nelson Mandela of South Africa and Aung San Suu Kyi of Myanmar, she is a prisoner of conscience. This phase will surely pass. Nigeria’s rule of law is at the precipice.”
The EFCC had declared Achimugu wanted on 28 March for her alleged involvement in money laundering activities. On Monday, the Federal High Court in Abuja ordered her to appear before the EFCC on Tuesday in relation to the case.
Justice Inyang Ekwo, who presided over the matter, also directed the EFCC to produce Achimugu in court on Wednesday. The order followed a suit filed by the businesswoman, seeking an interim injunction to restrain security agencies from arresting or harassing her.
During the hearing, Achimugu’s counsel, Kehinde Ogunwumiju, informed the court of her willingness to honour the EFCC’s invitation on 29 April, following her return to the country. He asked that she be allowed to report to the commission and remain on the same bail conditions previously granted.
However, the EFCC’s legal team argued that her application was speculative and without merit, maintaining that her rights had not been infringed upon. The agency further stated that Achimugu had breached the terms of her earlier administrative bail.
Achimugu’s arraignment is expected to continue as ordered by the court on Wednesday.
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