The Federal High Court has ordered businesswoman Aisha Achimugu to appear before it on Wednesday in an ongoing investigation over fraud allegations involving her.
Justice Emeka Nwite issued the directive on Monday in Abuja after ordering Achimugu to report to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Tuesday and subsequently appear in court on Wednesday in the company of EFCC officials.
The judge gave the order following an application filed by Achimugu’s counsel, Kehinde Ogunwumiju (SAN).
Her counsel prayed the court to prevent the EFCC from detaining or harassing Achimugu during her compliance with their investigation invitation.
TheHintsNews reports that on April 11, the judge had directed the EFCC and five other security agencies to file their defences in a fundamental rights enforcement suit filed by Achimugu. She is seeking protection from arrest and detention.
Achimugu, in her response sought interim reliefs restraining the agencies from harassing, detaining, or violating her rights to freedom of movement, liberty, privacy, and property.
She alleged that her declaration as “wanted” by the EFCC on March 28 was unjustified and damaging to her reputation and professional standing.
At Monday’s hearing, Ogunwumiju informed the court that Achimugu would return to Nigeria on Tuesday to report to the EFCC by noon.
He urged the court to ensure she is protected from harassment, especially considering her role as the mother of a child with special needs.
However, EFCC counsel, Ekele Iheanacho, opposed the application, arguing that it was speculative and that Achimugu had previously breached administrative bail conditions by failing to honour invitations.
In his ruling, Justice Nwite directed the EFCC to continue its investigation while ensuring Achimugu’s appearance in court the next day.
The judge ruled: “The applicant shall appear before the 4th respondent (EFCC) on April 29, 2025, as outlined in her affidavit. Upon her appearance, the respondent shall return with the applicant to this court on April 30, 2025, to report on the proceedings.”