Lagos-based socialite and business executive, Aisha Achimugu, has denied reports that $13 million was discovered in her residence, describing the claim as misleading.
She spoke amid ongoing scrutiny over her finances and legal battle with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
‘I’m Not a Bank’
In an interview on Monday, Achimugu said only $50,000 and ₦13 million, which she claimed belonged to her mother, were found during a raid on her home.
“I don’t know where Nigerians got the impression that I had 13 million dollars in my house. I’m not a bank,” she said.
She added that her house was searched, but the widely circulated figure is inaccurate.
Distances Wealth from Political Ties
Achimugu also dismissed claims linking her wealth to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
According to her, she has been running businesses since 2001 and built her fortune through legitimate ventures.
She said her company successfully participated in oil block bidding rounds between 2022 and 2024 through a transparent process.
Explains Foreign Currency Possession
On the presence of foreign currency, she said it was kept for practical reasons, noting that her children study abroad.
“It is important to have some foreign currency available for emergencies,” she said.
She declined to speak extensively on the EFCC case, citing ongoing legal proceedings.
Addresses Birthday Controversy, EFCC Invitation
Achimugu also defended her high-profile birthday celebration in Grenada, saying it had been planned for years and was not funded with any disputed funds.
She explained that her delayed response to EFCC’s invitation was due to her being out of the country, adding that her movements may have been misinterpreted.
Court Ruling Adds Twist
In March, a Federal High Court in Abuja ordered the final forfeiture of $13 million linked to Achimugu and her company to the Federal Government.
The court ruled that the funds were proceeds of unlawful activities, while the EFCC maintained they were traced through suspicious transactions tied to oil block deals.
Achimugu and her firm have, however, continued to deny any wrongdoing.