The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has responded to recent media reports linking its investigation of Aisha Achimugu, a key figure in Nigeria’s 2023 elections, with the political activities of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. The commission has categorically denied any connections between its ongoing probe of Achimugu and the two prominent political figures.
In a statement released by the EFCC, the commission emphasized that its investigation into Achimugu is based on allegations of criminal conspiracy and money laundering, not on any political machinations involving Atiku or Sanwo-Olu. The statement also clarified that Achimugu is currently wanted by the commission for questioning over these alleged offenses.
The controversy began earlier this month when The People’s Gazette, a Nigerian news outlet, published an article claiming that Governor Sanwo-Olu was facing trouble because President Bola Tinubu had uncovered a money transfer scheme involving Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, two major contenders in the 2023 presidential election. According to the report, these funds were allegedly funnelled through Aisha Achimugu to support their respective campaigns.
The story quickly sparked political tensions, with Atiku’s spokesperson accusing the presidency of orchestrating a plot against him and Governor Sanwo-Olu. In response, the Nigerian presidency dismissed these allegations, labeling them as part of a smear campaign and insisting that no such plot existed.
The EFCC, in its statement, clarified that the investigation into Achimugu started in 2022, well before the political drama unfolded in the media. The commission pointed out that Achimugu had even attempted to block the investigation through legal means by seeking an injunction that would prevent the EFCC from arresting or detaining her. However, the court ruled against her request in February 2025, with the Federal High Court in Abuja determining that the EFCC’s investigation was lawful and well within its powers. The court further upheld an order for the forfeiture of Achimugu’s assets, which are suspected to be the proceeds of crime.
The EFCC’s statement further stressed that there is no link between the case against Achimugu and any politician or political engagement. It also reminded the public that the commission operates independently, with no political bias. The EFCC reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism and urged Nigerians to trust its work in combatting financial crimes.
This clarification from the EFCC comes at a time when political tensions in Nigeria are running high, particularly in the wake of the 2023 general elections. The elections, which saw Bola Tinubu emerge victorious in the presidential race, have been marred by accusations of electoral malpractice and corruption. Both Atiku and Obi, who were key challengers in the presidential race, have consistently raised concerns over the legitimacy of the election results.
Aisha Achimugu’s name became prominent during the elections after reports suggested she was a key figure in financial transactions related to the election campaigns. She has been accused of being involved in money laundering activities linked to campaign financing, though she has denied any wrongdoing.
The EFCC’s investigation into Achimugu is part of a broader effort to clamp down on financial corruption, particularly in the political sphere. Over the years, the commission has been involved in numerous high-profile investigations into politicians and government officials accused of misappropriating public funds or engaging in illicit financial activities.
The commission’s assertion that the investigation is not politically motivated has been met with mixed reactions from Nigerians. Supporters of the EFCC have hailed the commission’s independence and professionalism, while critics have expressed skepticism, citing the close relationship between the EFCC and the current administration.
Political analysts have also weighed in on the matter, suggesting that the allegations surrounding Achimugu’s investigation are indicative of the ongoing power struggles within Nigerian politics. Some have argued that the case could be an attempt to discredit certain political figures, while others believe it could be part of a larger effort to fight corruption in the political establishment.
Despite these controversies, the EFCC has remained firm in its stance that its work is not influenced by political considerations. The commission has also urged Nigerians to avoid drawing conclusions based on speculation or unverified media reports.
For now, the EFCC’s investigation into Aisha Achimugu continues, with the commission urging all concerned parties to allow the legal process to unfold without interference. The commission’s investigation is seen by many as a test of its ability to maintain independence and impartiality in its quest to tackle corruption, especially in the politically charged environment of Nigeria.
In the meantime, Nigerians are left with more questions than answers about the true nature of the allegations against Achimugu and whether they are connected to the ongoing political rivalries between Nigeria’s top political figures. However, the EFCC’s assurance of neutrality and professionalism offers some hope that the investigation will proceed without political interference.
