By Abiola Olawale
Prominent Nigerian socialite and businesswoman Aisha Achimugu has reportedly fled the country as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has purportedly intensified its investigations into allegations of fraud linked to her business dealings.
According to reports by PREMIUM TIMES, Nigerian digital newspaper Achimugu purportedly left Nigeria between March 6 and 7, shortly after failing to honour an EFCC invitation for questioning on March 5.
The publication, quoting an insider source who spoke with the press said the EFCC has beamed its searchlight and investigations into Achimugu’s financial activities following complaints of alleged money laundering and investment scams tied to her business empire.
The anti-graft agency is also said to have reportedly secured a court warrant for her arrest after she did not appear for the scheduled interrogation.
The newspaper, quoting a source, stated: “Her escape from the country is a betrayal of the trust we extended to her. She will soon be declared wanted if she does not return to face the investigation.”
Achimugu, known for her lavish lifestyle and high-profile social events, including a widely publicized seven-day 50th birthday celebration in Grenada, a country in the Caribbean, has been a polarizing figure in Nigeria’s elite circles.
As the founder and managing director of an Abuja-based Felak Concept Group, she has often portrayed herself as a philanthropist and advocate for youth empowerment, launching initiatives like a 30-day Ramadan feeding program for the less privileged.
However, critics have long questioned the sources of her wealth, with some alleging that her business dealings may not be entirely legitimate.
However, in response to earlier rumours of her arrest, Achimugu’s media aide, David Abakpa, stated on March 14, that there was nothing of such. The aide denied any detention by the EFCC and describing such claims as “fake news” orchestrated by detractors.
Abakpa emphasized that Achimugu was out of the country on a business trip and had not been arrested. “Mrs Achimugu is a law-abiding Nigerian who is highly respected internationally for her legitimate dealings,” the statement read.
