Prominent Nigerian business executive and philanthropist, Aisha Sulaiman Achimugu, has reportedly embarked on a hunger strike while in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), following her arrest at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, around 5 a.m. Her legal team, led by Mr Chikaosolu Ojukwu, SAN, confirmed the arrest and expressed concerns over her treatment.
The EFCC had earlier declared Achimugu wanted over allegations of criminal conspiracy and money laundering. According to the commission, she failed to honour an invitation for questioning, prompting the issuance of an arrest warrant. The EFCC has denied any political motivations, stating that the investigation began in 2022 and is based on legal grounds.
However, several voices have criticised the commission’s actions. The Arewa Youth Council for Justice alleged political motivations, suggesting links to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. A coalition of civil society groups under the Public Accountability Watch also dismissed the claims against Achimugu, citing her economic contributions and absence from Nigeria during the period in question.
Human rights advocate Binta Adeshola described Achimugu’s ordeal as a betrayal of justice and womanhood.
She highlighted Achimugu’s role as a trailblazer in male-dominated sectors and raised questions about fairness in the judicial process.
In a related development, a group of 20 constitutional lawyers, led by Barrister Okere Kingdom, has vowed to challenge the EFCC’s actions in court. They described the commission’s declaration and arrest as unjust and politically motivated.
As public interest grows, calls are mounting for a transparent and unbiased judicial process to ensure justice is delivered without interference or prejudice.
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