The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to release socialite and businesswoman Aisha Achimugu within 24 hours, following her arrest at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.
Justice Inyang Ekwo, in a brief ruling on Wednesday, also directed that the EFCC appear in court on May 2, 2025, to confirm compliance with the order.
Achimugu was previously ordered by the court to report to the EFCC in connection with ongoing investigations into alleged money laundering, corruption, and acquisition of oil blocs through illicit means.
According to court filings, Achimugu allegedly used her company, Ocean Gate Engineering Oil and Gas Ltd, to purchase two oil blocs with over $25 million, largely paid in cash through Bureau De Change operators. The EFCC maintains that the funds used were not traceable to any legitimate income.
While she was initially granted administrative bail, the EFCC claimed she violated bail terms and declared her wanted in March. In response, Achimugu filed a fundamental rights suit, arguing that the “wanted” declaration was unlawful and damaging to her reputation.
Justice Ekwo upheld her bail and stressed that the EFCC must honour the court’s directives, warning that all parties involved must report back to the court on May 2. The court has also set that day to hear other pending motions filed by Achimugu’s legal team.
