Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have arrested Aisha Sulaiman Achimugu, a prominent businesswoman and socialite, in connection with ongoing investigations into alleged money laundering and criminal conspiracy.
Achimugu, who had been declared wanted by the EFCC in March 2025, was apprehended at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, around 5 a.m. on Tuesday upon her arrival from London.
Her arrest follows a court directive issued by Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court, Abuja, ordering Achimugu to appear before the EFCC on Tuesday, April 29, and before the court on Wednesday, April 30, to answer questions regarding the agency’s investigation.
According to a report by Nairametrics, Achimugu’s legal representative, Chikaosolu Ojukwu (SAN), informed the court on Monday that his client had made clear in her court filings her intention to comply with the EFCC’s invitation. Ojukwu argued that the arrest was in violation of the court process, stating that Achimugu had returned voluntarily in fulfillment of an undertaking given before the court.
“She has immediately gone on a hunger strike. She is a prisoner of conscience,” Ojukwu stated, describing the EFCC’s action as contrary to the rule of law.
EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale confirmed that Achimugu was indeed scheduled to appear before the Commission on Tuesday in accordance with the court’s directive. On the issue of her airport arrest, he said a formal response would be issued in due course.
Achimugu had earlier filed a suit against several law enforcement bodies, including the EFCC, Nigeria Police Force, ICPC, DSS, NSCDC, and the Nigeria Immigration Service, seeking legal protection amidst growing scrutiny from these agencies.
Her detention marks a significant development in the EFCC’s broader crackdown on high-profile cases of financial misconduct.
