The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has launched an investigation into the Lagos State Government under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu over a controversial $13 million linked to businesswoman Aisha Achimugu, as reported by PREMIUM TIMES.
According to sources familiar with the matter, investigators began examining the state’s possible connection to the funds after discovering that a portion allegedly originated from contractors engaged by the Lagos State Government.
While court filings have already revealed some details about the source of the money, key information—such as the identities of the contractors and any potential involvement of government officials—remains undisclosed to avoid compromising ongoing investigations.
On Wednesday, the Federal High Court of Nigeria sitting in Abuja ordered the permanent forfeiture of the $13 million to the Nigerian government, ruling that the funds were proceeds of fraudulent activities.
Efforts to obtain official reactions were unsuccessful. The Lagos State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro, and the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, did not respond to calls or messages seeking clarification on the matter.
Investigators say the transactions raise serious concerns, particularly because contractors reportedly transferred significant sums to companies linked to Ms. Achimugu despite having no clear or legitimate business relationship with her or her firm.
It is still uncertain whether Governor Sanwo-Olu had any knowledge of or direct involvement in the alleged dealings, or whether he is simply under scrutiny due to his leadership position at the time the transactions occurred.
Previous reports have highlighted a close relationship between the governor and Ms. Achimugu. Notably, in January 2024, the governor travelled to Grenada, where he spent several days during celebrations marking her 50th birthday. Reports indicated that he flew by private jet and stayed at a luxury resort while state officials reportedly struggled to determine his whereabouts during that period.
Responding at the time, Governor Sanwo-Olu stated via his official X (formerly Twitter) account that his trip to Grenada was intended to promote Lagos State’s economic interests. However, he did not explicitly confirm or deny attending the birthday celebration…..See More
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