EFCC Declares Socialite Aisha Achimugu Wanted Over Alleged Money Laundering

Aisha Achimugu

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has declared Aisha Achimugu, a well-known businesswoman and socialite, wanted over allegations of criminal conspiracy and money laundering.

The anti-graft agency made the announcement on Tuesday in a statement signed by its spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, and posted on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle.

According to the EFCC, Achimugu, 51, is a native of Ofu Local Government Area in Kogi State and was last known to reside at 6C, Rudolf Close, Maitama, Abuja. The agency urged the public to assist in locating her, providing contact details for its offices nationwide.

“Anybody with useful information regarding her whereabouts should report to any of our offices in Ibadan, Uyo, Sokoto, Maiduguri, Benin, Makurdi, Kaduna, Ilorin, Enugu, Kano, Lagos, Gombe, Port Harcourt, or Abuja, or contact us via 08093322644, email (info@efcc.gov.ng), or at the nearest police station.”

EFCC’s Summons and Asset Forfeiture Case

Achimugu was initially summoned to appear at the EFCC’s Port Harcourt office on March 5, 2025, in connection with an alleged high-profile investment scam and financial crimes.

Court records reveal that she had previously obtained an injunction preventing the EFCC from arresting or detaining her, but the Federal High Court in Abuja overturned the order on February 19, 2025. The court ruled that law enforcement agencies, including the EFCC, have the legal authority to investigate crimes when there is credible suspicion or evidence of wrongdoing.

Additionally, the court upheld an interim order for the forfeiture of assets linked to Achimugu, dismissing her legal challenge as lacking merit.

Presidency Dismisses Atiku’s Allegations as Political Distraction

Meanwhile, the Presidency has strongly denied allegations by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar regarding financial dealings tied to Lagos State, calling them unfounded and politically motivated.

In a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, the Presidency dismissed Atiku’s claims as baseless, accusing him of relying on social media speculation instead of factual evidence.

“These claims, circulated through his media office, are false and reflect a troubling pattern of relying on social media gossip over substance,” Onanuga stated.

He further criticized Atiku’s approach, suggesting that the former vice president was seeking political relevance following his 2023 election loss.

“Since his defeat, the former Vice President has failed to rise to the dignified role of an elder statesman. Rather than contributing constructively to national discourse, he has chosen the path of divisive rhetoric and unfounded accusations,” the statement read.

The Presidency emphasized that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains focused on governance, dismissing Atiku’s statements as an attempt to distract from national priorities.

EFCC: No Political Motives in Achimugu Case

In response to speculations linking Achimugu’s case to political figures, the EFCC has categorically denied any political influence behind its investigation.

In a statement, the anti-graft agency clarified that Achimugu’s probe is solely based on alleged financial crimes and has no connections to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar or Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

The EFCC also reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism and impartiality, urging the public to avoid reading political motives into its work.

“The EFCC is non-partisan and non-sectarian. Our duty is to investigate financial crimes without fear or favor,” the statement read.

What Happens Next?

With Achimugu now officially declared wanted, the EFCC is expected to intensify efforts to track her down. Legal experts suggest that if apprehended, she could face serious criminal charges with potential asset forfeiture if found guilty.

As the case unfolds, it continues to spark public interest and debate on Nigeria’s fight against financial crimes. For many, the case serves as a litmus test for the EFCC’s independence and commitment to justice, regardless of social status or political connections.