EFCC detains ex-Ekiti gov, Fayemi Over N4bn Fraud

From Fred Itua, Abuja The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), yesterday, interrogated the immediate-past governor of Ekiti State, Kayode Fayemi, over alleged N4 billion misappropriation.

It was reported that the former governor arrived at the Ilorin zonal command of the anti-graft agency at about 10am, yesterday, and was drilled by a team of EFCC investigators on allegations of misappropriation of funds during his tenure.

A fortnight ago, Fayemi wrote to the EFCC, seeking delay in money laundering investigation against him, in order to present a book in honour of former president Muhammadu Buhari, on May 19.

Fayemi was billed to appear before the EFCC on May 18 for questioning over money laundering allegations. The commission had, in a letter dated May 12, asked him to appear before the head of its zonal command office in Kwara State, to answer questions bordering on alleged money laundering activities.

The letter, issued by the zonal commander, Michael Nzekwe, noted that the EFCC requested Fayemi to appear before it on May 18.

Fayemi, through his legal counsel, Adeola Omotunde, in a letter dated May 15, told the EFCC that he was one of the organisers and reviewer of one of the books published in former president Buhari’s honour.

Part of Fayemi’s letter reads: “Our client is in receipt of your letter of invitation dated May 12, 2023, for an appointment on Thursday, May 18, 2023.

“Our client is engaged on May 18, 2023, as he is preparing for a public presentation and launching of two new books in honour of President Muhammadu Buhari, titled: ‘State of Repair: How President Muhammad Buhari Tried to Change Nigeria For Good’, by Anthony Goldman, and ‘The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari’ by Abu Ibrahim, slated for May 19, 2023, at the Banquet Hall, State House, Abuja, by 10am.

“Our client is one of the organisers of the programme and will review one of the books. Our client has also committed himself to other programmes between May 19 and May 24, 2023 before he received your invitation. We regret to inform you that our client will not be able to honour your invitation on May 18, 2023 against the backdrop of the foregoing information.”