Prominent Nigerian businesswoman and socialite, Aisha Achimugu, made a high-profile appearance before the Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday, following her arrest by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Achimugu arrived at the courthouse around 11:35 a.m., escorted by two female EFCC officials, drawing the attention of both legal observers and members of the public. Her court appearance marks a significant development in the high-stakes money laundering case that has drawn national attention.
The arraignment came barely 24 hours after her dramatic arrest at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, shortly after her return from London. She was immediately taken into EFCC custody in compliance with a court order issued earlier this week.
Justice Inyang Ekwo had on Monday directed Achimugu to present herself at the EFCC headquarters by Tuesday and appear in court on Wednesday, April 30, 2025. The order followed the commission’s declaration in March that she was wanted in connection with an ongoing investigation into alleged criminal conspiracy and large-scale money laundering.
While details of the charges are yet to be fully disclosed in court, EFCC sources allege that Achimugu is linked to a complex network of financial transactions involving several high-profile individuals and entities under investigation.
The EFCC, known for its recent crackdown on politically exposed persons and influential figures, has ramped up its pursuit of corruption-related cases ahead of mid-year accountability reports.
Achimugu, a well-known figure in Nigeria’s elite social and business circles, has maintained a low profile in recent months amid speculation over her legal troubles.
As the case unfolds, legal analysts say it could serve as a litmus test for the EFCC’s capacity to prosecute high-level financial crimes involving influential individuals.
More details are expected to emerge when formal charges are read and proceedings continue in the coming days.
