The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has apprehended popular Nigerian socialite and businesswoman, Aisha Achimugu, at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, following her return from an overseas trip. The arrest occurred during the early hours of Tuesday, around 5 a.m., shortly after her arrival from London.
Achimugu had previously been declared wanted by the EFCC in March 2025, in connection with ongoing investigations involving serious allegations of criminal conspiracy and money laundering. Her return to the country and immediate arrest have stirred public interest and raised legal concerns.
Her arrest came just one day after the Federal High Court in Abuja issued an order requiring her to appear before the EFCC on Tuesday, April 29, and also to be present in court on Wednesday, April 30, 2025. Despite this court directive, Achimugu was taken into custody upon landing, an action that has been criticized by her legal counsel.
Her lawyer, Chief Chikaosolu Ojukwu, confirmed the arrest in a statement, asserting that his client had voluntarily returned to Nigeria to comply with the court order and EFCC invitation. “Aisha Achimugu, who voluntarily returned to the country from London, was arrested by the EFCC around 5 a.m. on Tuesday,” he said.
Ojukwu expressed disapproval of the EFCC's actions, claiming they violated the spirit of the court's instruction. “In light of what transpired in court on Monday, my client returned based on the undertaking before the court to honour the EFCC’s invitation, but was arrested at the airport,” he said, suggesting that the arrest was unnecessary and unjustified.
In protest against what she perceives as a breach of her rights, Achimugu has reportedly commenced a hunger strike, declaring herself a “prisoner of conscience.” Her legal team is expected to raise the matter in court during the next hearing.
Meanwhile, an unnamed official from the EFCC has confirmed the arrest, defending the agency’s action. “We had earlier declared her wanted and we can’t allow her to continue to walk freely. Secondly, the court said she must appear before us today. We were not restricted from arresting her; what the court said was if she comes, she should not be detained,” the source explained.
The source further added, “How are you sure she would appear before us today? Now that we have seen her, we have a course to ensure she appears.”
As of the time of filing this report, EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale had not issued any official statement or response regarding Achimugu’s arrest and the legal concerns it has triggered.