Court Orders EFCC To Release Aisha Achimugu Within 24 Hours

The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to release Aisha Achimugu within 24 hours.

Justice Inyang Ekwo issued the directive on Wednesday, warning the EFCC against further detention without proper legal grounds.

The Court also directed both the EFCC and Achimugu to return to the courtroom on May 2 to report compliance.

Earlier in the week, the Court had instructed Achimugu to appear at the EFCC office to respond to an ongoing investigation.

Justice Ekwo emphasized that the EFCC must produce her in court following her appearance, allowing the Court to track the matter.

Achimugu, a businesswoman and well-known socialite, was arrested around 5 a.m. Tuesday at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

The EFCC is probing her involvement in alleged conspiracy, fraud, money laundering, and possession of suspicious properties.

The anti-graft agency claimed Achimugu had earlier been released on administrative bail, but later jumped bail and was declared wanted.

In court, the EFCC said it needed more time to complete its investigation into the financial allegations involving Achimugu.

Justice Ekwo, however, ruled that constitutional rights must be respected, ordering her release within a day.

The Court stated that EFCC must justify any continued detention or risk contempt proceedings.

Achimugu’s legal team welcomed the Court’s decision, insisting that her arrest and detention were unlawful and politically motivated.

They argued that she had been cooperating with investigators before being declared wanted without notice.

The Court also reminded the EFCC of the importance of upholding due process in high-profile investigations like this.

Observers note that the case has attracted public interest due to Achimugu’s social standing and political connections.

The matter is expected to return to Court on May 2 for further proceedings.