Ogona Anita
In a dramatic twist to the ongoing investigation involving high-profile political and business figures, a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has ordered the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to release Aisha Achimugu, a prominent businesswoman and known ally of Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, within the next 24 hours.
The ruling was delivered earlier today following an ex parte motion filed by Achimugu’s legal team, who argued that her continued detention by the anti-graft agency was unlawful and a gross violation of her fundamental human rights.
Justice N.E. Maha, who presided over the case, held that the EFCC failed to present sufficient legal grounds to justify the prolonged detention of the defendant without formally charging her in court. The judge emphasized that under Nigerian law, no citizen should be held indefinitely without due process.
Achimugu was reportedly picked up by EFCC operatives last week over allegations linked to money laundering and financial misappropriation in connection with a string of public-private partnerships. Her arrest triggered political ripples, with many observers viewing the development as politically motivated due to her close ties with influential political figures, including Governor Sanwo-Olu.
In his reaction, lead counsel to Aisha Achimugu, Barr. Yusuf Ibrahim, described the court’s ruling as “a victory for the rule of law and a warning against arbitrary use of state power.”
The EFCC is yet to issue an official response to the ruling as of the time of filing this report, but sources within the agency hinted that an appeal may be considered.
This ruling adds another layer of complexity to the growing public scrutiny over the EFCC’s arrest and detention protocols, especially involving high-profile individuals.
Stay with us for further updates on this developing story.
