Money laundering; Court acquits Fayose over #6.9 billion charge

DDM NEWS

Ayo Fayose

A Federal High Court in Lagos has acquitted former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose of money laundering charges.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had accused Fayose of laundering ₦6.9 billion during his tenure as governor, allegedly misappropriating funds between 2014 and 2015.

However, Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke ruled that the EFCC failed to provide credible evidence linking Fayose to the crimes, stating that “the prosecution did not establish a sufficient link to compel the defendant to present a defense.

Fayose celebrated his acquittal by sharing a meal of amala, a traditional Yoruba dish made from yam flour, paired with ewedu soup, with bricklayers at a construction site.

This unconventional celebration showcased his connection with ordinary people and highlighted his desire to identify with the masses.

Fayose said, “We thank God for this victory… These are my people—Christ said such as these belong to His family”.

The EFCC has announced plans to appeal the court’s decision, reaffirming its commitment to the rule of law.

The commission’s lawyer, Rotimi Jacobs, stated that they will obtain a certified copy of the judgment and begin the process of filing an appeal.

The EFCC’s decision to appeal underscores its determination to pursue justice, despite the court’s ruling .

The acquittal has sparked debates about the efficacy of legal proceedings in Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts.

While supporters hail the verdict as a vindication, critics question whether procedural weaknesses overshadowed substantive understanding of accountability.

The case’s outcome highlights the challenges in proving complex financial crimes, particularly where documentary evidence or direct testimonies are lacking.

The EFCC had arraigned Fayose and his company, Spotless Investment Limited, on an 11-count charge bordering on money laundering and stealing to the tune of ₦6.9 billion.

The case has been ongoing since 2018, with the EFCC presenting several witnesses, including a former Director of Administration and Finance at the Office of the National Security Adviser, Sahibu Salisu. Salisu testified about payments made to a firm, Sylvan MacNamara, for security purposes, allegedly on the instruction of a former National Security Adviser, Col. Sambo Dasuki .

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