•Aisha Achimugu
Nigerian businesswoman and investor Aisha Achimugu (OFR) has publicly appealed for the protection of her life, family, businesses and investments, alleging that she has been subjected to a prolonged campaign of intimidation, reputational damage and rights violations by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Speaking in a detailed statement addressed to both local and international media, Achimugu maintained that she is a law-abiding citizen who has spent more than three decades building businesses across Nigeria and abroad, while contributing to employment, philanthropy and economic development.
The accountant and entrepreneur, who is the widow of former Pipelines and Products Marketing Company (PPMC) Managing Director, the late Engr. Sulaiman Achimugu, said she has invested more than $100 million in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector and other industries, insisting that her life’s work is now under threat.
Claims of Persecution
Achimugu alleged that for nearly two years she has been subjected to what she described as “systematic oppression, character assassination, intimidation and unlawful seizure of assets” by the EFCC.
According to her, the situation began after investigators linked her and companies within the Felak Group to MBA Forex and Capital Investment. She maintained that neither she nor her companies owned or controlled MBA Forex, explaining that her company’s only involvement was a single commercial transaction for which she said all relevant funds had been refunded to the EFCC during the investigation.
She further alleged that despite cooperating with investigators and honouring several invitations from the anti-graft agency, her personal and corporate bank accounts, as well as those of her children, remain frozen.
Allegations of Court Order Violations
The businesswoman also accused the EFCC of disregarding court orders during ongoing litigation, claiming that security operatives raided her residence on two occasions, seized personal belongings, vehicles and valuables, and subjected her family to emotional distress.
She alleged that the agency declared her wanted in March 2025 despite what she described as ongoing communication with investigators regarding her availability to appear before the commission.
Achimugu further claimed that her arrest upon returning to Nigeria in April 2025, subsequent detention and delayed release occurred despite court orders granting her bail.
Economic and Personal Impact
Achimugu said the dispute has had severe consequences on both her businesses and personal life.
According to her, the controversy has resulted in the loss of international banking relationships, disrupted financing opportunities, damaged longstanding business partnerships and created uncertainty around investments exceeding $100 million.
She also claimed that the negative publicity has affected her international mobility, including the revocation of a United States visa and complications relating to travel under her Grenadian citizenship.
Beyond the financial implications, she expressed concern for the safety and emotional well-being of her children, parents, employees and business associates, arguing that continued public exposure has placed them at risk.
Appeal to Institutions
Calling for respect for the rule of law, Achimugu urged the National Assembly, the judiciary, security agencies, civil society organisations, human rights groups and the international business community to scrutinise her case objectively.
She said that legitimate investors should not face what she described as arbitrary asset seizures or public condemnation without due legal process.
The controversy has resulted in the loss of international banking relationships, disrupted financing opportunities, damaged longstanding business partnerships and created uncertainty around investments exceeding $100 million
“I remain a proud Nigerian and believe in the country’s judicial system,” she said, adding that she is prepared to face any lawful investigation conducted in accordance with constitutional provisions.
Call for Due Process
Achimugu stressed that her appeal is not an attempt to evade accountability but a plea for fairness, judicial independence and the protection of fundamental rights.
She concluded by urging authorities to safeguard citizens, encourage investment and uphold the rule of law, warning that continued attacks on legitimate businesses could undermine investor confidence and Nigeria’s economic growth.
