The Coalition for Accountability and Good Governance has petitioned President Bola Tinubu over the decision of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to declare businesswoman and philanthropist, Mrs. Aisha Sulaiman Achimugu, wanted.
The group in the petition signed by its Secretary, Comrade Martins Emmanuel expressed concern by the conduct of the EFCC in handling of the matter.
It said the sensational media blitz and an unlawful night-time invasion of her Abuja residence, has raised serious questions about the professionalism, legality, and motive of the Commission’s actions.
The group urged the President to intervene to ensure the immediate cessation of all forms of intimidation against her, the restoration of her dignity, and a clear directive to the EFCC to adhere strictly to constitutional provisions and the tenets of justice.
It said: “We write to you, as a non-partisan coalition committed to the advancement of accountability, justice, and good governance in our dear country, Nigeria.
“While we commend the unwavering stance of your administration in the fight against corruption and the strengthening of institutions, we find ourselves deeply concerned by the conduct of the EFCC in its handling of the matter involving Mrs. Aisha Achimugu, a reputable entrepreneur, philanthropist, and global business leader.
“Our attention has been drawn to the recent declaration of Mrs. Achimugu as “wanted” by the EFCC under circumstances that do not reflect the principles of fairness, due process, or the rule of law.
“This action, accompanied by a sensational media blitz and an unlawful night-time invasion of her Abuja residence, has raised serious questions about the professionalism, legality, and motive of the Commission’s actions.
“It is on record that Mrs. Achimugu, upon receiving an invitation dated 4th March 2025 from the EFCC’s Port Harcourt Zonal Office, promptly responded on the 5th of March, explaining her medical treatment abroad and respectfully requesting an extension.
“Despite her proactive communication and further letters, including one addressed directly to the EFCC Chairman and duly acknowledged.
“She was nonetheless declared wanted on the 15th of March 2025 without any reasonable justification or exhaustion of civil procedures.
“What followed this declaration was even more disturbing. Operatives of the EFCC, contrary to the agency’s publicly stated policy against night operations, stormed her residence under the cover of darkness, without a valid court warrant.
“Her elderly mother, young Children, family members, and domestic staff were subjected to undue harassment, intimidation, and public embarrassment.
“Valuables were carted away from the home, and the entire episode was carried out in a manner that suggests a carefully choreographed media trial rather than a legitimate investigation.
“We are deeply troubled by the implications of such actions. Demonizing an individual who has not been indicted by any court of law not only undermines the fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution but also sends a chilling signal to local and foreign investors.
“This is especially worrisome at a time when your administration is making concerted efforts to attract capital and business confidence into Nigeria.
“Mrs. Achimugu is a respected figure with an unblemished record in both business and philanthropy. Her roles in nation-building, enterprise development, and charitable engagements are widely acknowledged.
“The current public shaming orchestrated by the EFCC is therefore not just unjust, but also counterproductive to national interest.
“We urge Your Excellency to call the EFCC to order and direct that the Commission returns to the path of law, decency, and due process.
“The EFCC must be cautioned against its recurring pattern of media sensationalism, reckless declarations, and extra-judicial methods.
“Let it be known that anti-corruption is best fought with fairness, transparency, and strict adherence to legal procedures—not by persecuting citizens under the glare of cameras and public scorn.
“We also remind Your Excellency of similar excesses in the past, such as the ongoing controversy surrounding the Commission’s handling of the case involving the former Governor of Kogi State, Mr. Yahaya Bello.
“These acts have only served to erode public trust and cast a shadow over the Commission’s integrity. We strongly condemn the unjust treatment meted out to Mrs. Aisha Achimugu and her family.
“We respectfully call for your intervention to ensure the immediate cessation of all forms of intimidation against her, the restoration of her dignity, and a clear directive to the EFCC to adhere strictly to constitutional provisions and the tenets of justice.”