Abuja socialite returns from London, appears in court following warrant and agency declaration
Abuja-based businesswoman and socialite, Aisha Achimugu, was produced before the Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), following her earlier declaration as wanted over alleged involvement in money laundering and criminal conspiracy.
Achimugu arrived in court at approximately 11:35 a.m., escorted by two female EFCC officers. Her appearance complies with a court order issued by Justice Inyang Ekwo, who on Monday directed the EFCC to ensure the socialite honours its invitation and be brought before the court for further proceedings.
According to her legal counsel, Mr. Chikaosolu Ojukwu (SAN), Achimugu was arrested at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, around 5:00 a.m. upon her return from London. Ojukwu stated that his client returned voluntarily in a bid to cooperate with the anti-graft agency.
Despite her voluntary appearance, reports emerged that Achimugu is staging a hunger strike while in EFCC custody, protesting what her legal team described as an unjustified arrest.
Achimugu was declared wanted by the EFCC in March over suspicions of large-scale money laundering activities. The Commission had been pursuing her for failing to respond to its invitations, prompting the court to intervene earlier this week.
Justice Ekwo, after confirming her appearance in court, adjourned the matter for further hearing while directing the EFCC to continue its investigation in accordance with due process.
