EFCC arrests Aisha Achimugu at Abuja airport over money laundering allegations

Published

1 year ago

April 29, 2025

Businesswoman Aisha Achimugu arrested by EFCC at Abuja airport despite court order; begins hunger strike to protest alleged rights violation

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested prominent businesswoman Aisha Achimugu at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, shortly after her return from London.

Also read: EFCC intensifies crackdown on Aisha Achimugu following wanted declaration

The arrest occurred at approximately 5:00 a.m. on Tuesday, despite a court order that she should not be detained if she voluntarily presented herself.

Achimugu had been declared wanted by the EFCC in March 2025 in connection with alleged criminal conspiracy and money laundering.

On Monday, Justice I.E. Ekwo of the Federal High Court in Abuja directed her to appear before the EFCC on Tuesday and in court on Wednesday, April 30.

Her lawyer, Chief Chikaosolu Ojukwu, expressed outrage at the arrest, describing it as a breach of the court’s directive.

In light of what transpired in court on Monday, my client returned based on the undertaking before the court to honour the EFCC’s invitation, but was arrested at the airport.” — Chief Chikaosolu Ojukwu

“In light of what transpired in court on Monday, my client returned based on the undertaking before the court to honour the EFCC’s invitation, but was arrested at the airport,” Ojukwu stated.

He also confirmed that Achimugu has begun a hunger strike to protest her detention, calling her “a prisoner of conscience.”

An EFCC source defended the arrest, asserting that the commission acted within its mandate.

“We were not restricted from arresting her; what the court said was if she comes, she should not be detained. How are you sure she would appear before us today?” the source said.

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Katsina Governor Mourns Slain Cleric, Demands Probe

Published

38 minutes ago

October 27, 2026

Peculiar Adirika

Sheikh Yahaya Masussuka was killed in Katsina alongside an associate. Governor Dikko Radda has condemned the attack and called for a thorough investigation

Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, has condemned the killing of Islamic cleric Sheikh Yahaya Masussuka and his associate, calling on security agencies to investigate the attack and bring those responsible to justice.

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The cleric was reportedly shot dead alongside his associate by unidentified gunmen riding a motorcycle outside his residence in Dutsin-Ma Local Government Area of Katsina State on Monday night, October 26, 2026.

In a statement issued on Monday by his Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Mohammed, Radda said he was shocked by the incident and extended his condolences to the deceased’s family, the Islamic community and others affected by the killings.

The governor urged security agencies to intensify efforts to establish the circumstances surrounding the attack, identify the suspects and ensure their arrest and prosecution.

“Those behind this heinous act must be brought to justice. I urge the relevant security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure that the perpetrators face the full weight of the law,” Radda said.

He also appealed to residents to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies and provide credible information that could assist investigators.

Radda cautioned against actions that could escalate tensions or threaten peace and security in the state.

Describing Masussuka as a religious leader committed to peaceful coexistence and interfaith harmony, the governor said the cleric’s teachings centred on the Qur’an, mutual understanding and peaceful relations among people of different faiths.

He added that Masussuka was known for speaking against violent extremism and radicalisation.

The governor urged the bereaved family to remain steadfast in their faith as they mourned their loss.

“I urge the bereaved family to take solace in the will of Almighty Allah and remain steadfast in faith during this difficult period. May Allah grant them the strength and patience to bear this painful loss,” he said.