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By Lizzy Chirkpi
In a dramatic turn of events, the Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday, ordered the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to release socialite and businesswoman, Aisha Achimugu within the next 24 hours.
Justice Inyang Ekwo, in a brief but decisive ruling delivered in Abuja, further directed all parties involved, particularly the EFCC, to appear before the court on May 2, 2025, to provide a report on their compliance with this order.
This directive comes just hours after the EFCC produced Achimugu in court, adhering to an earlier order from Justice Ekwo on Monday.
That initial order had compelled Achimugu to submit herself to the anti-graft agency for an ongoing investigation into allegations of money laundering and other offenses.
Achimugu’s appearance in court earlier today saw her arrive at approximately 11:35 am, escorted by two female EFCC operatives. This followed claims that she was apprehended by the EFCC upon her arrival in Nigeria around 5:00 am on Tuesday and subsequently detained.
The unfolding legal saga took a new twist with Justice Ekwo’s latest pronouncement, signaling a potential clash between the judiciary and the anti-graft agency regarding Achimugu’s detention.
The EFCC’s investigation of Achimugu is reportedly linked to a meticulous tracing of funds, focusing on transactions involving MBA Trading and Capital Investment Limited and over 130 accounts held by companies belonging to one Dr. Sulaiman at SunTrust Bank. These include FELAK CONCEPT GROUP LIMITED (Account No. 0001252281) and OCEAN GATE ENGINEERING OIL AND GAS LTD (Account No. 0001253422), with other significant transactions also under close scrutiny.
The order for Achimugu’s release within 24 hours injects a new level of intrigue into this high-profile case, leaving many to await the EFCC’s response and the subsequent court proceedings on May 2nd.