The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to release socialite, Aisha Achimugu within 24 hours.
Justice Inyang Ekwo ordered that all parties involved in the case need to return to court on May 2, to confirm that they have followed the court’s instructions.
Earlier, on Monday, the judge had directed Achimugu to respond to the EFCC’s invitation for questioning about an ongoing investigation into money laundering and other related issues.
After she reported to the EFCC office as requested, Achimugu was taken to the court on Wednesday morning, around 11:35 am.
During the hearing, the judge took a break to meet with the lawyers representing both Achimugu and the EFCC.
Kehinde Ogunwumiju, one of Achimugu’s lawyers, informed the court that they had previously submitted important documents supporting Achimugu’s case.
The EFCC’s lawyer, Ekele Iheanacho, said they didn’t object to that part of Achimugu’s requests, but that the commission had some concerns about another part.
Ogunwumiju then decided to withdraw that specific request.
The judge explained that the hearing was focused on getting a report from the EFCC about its latest actions regarding Achimugu.
He mentioned that the court might grant bail before the case is fully resolved.
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Achimugu would have to meet several conditions to be granted bail, including providing two active directors from federal agencies to vouch for her, along with other documents like passport photos and employment letters.
The sureties would also need to be based in Abuja and present a property deed as part of the bail application.
As of April 30, 2025, Achimugu is still in the EFCC’s custody.
One lawyer expressed that some of these bail conditions were too strict, particularly the requirement for property documents.
However, after discussions, the lawyer for the EFCC chose to challenge this requirement, leading to Ogunwumiju withdrawing that request.
Achimugu is facing investigations related to serious offenses, including fraud and money laundering.
