Businesswoman Aisha Achimugu has said her wealth did not come from Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, stating that she built her business over the years.
Speaking in an interview with Channels Television, Mrs Achimugu said she began doing business in 2001 and has maintained access to people in positions of power because of her work.
When asked if her money came from associates such as the governor, she replied, “not at all”.
Achimugu came into public attention in January 2024 when she held a seven-day birthday celebration in Grenada attended by Sanwo Olu.
In April 2025, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arrested her at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja over money laundering allegations.
A federal high court in Abuja later ordered the final forfeiture of $13 million linked to Achimugu and her company Oceangate Engineering Oil and Gas Ltd.
Justice Emeka Nwite held that the funds were proceeds of fraud. The company has said it is appealing the ruling.
Responding to claims about the funds, Achimugu said the money was not found in her residence.
“My house was raided, yes, but only $50,000 and ₦13 million belonging to my mom was found in my house, and then again, my personal belonging.
“I don’t know where Nigerians got the impression that I had $13 million in my house. I’m not a bank, so I won’t keep $13 million in my house. I have kids who go to school abroad, so it’s important that you have those currencies kept away for emergencies,” she said.
She also questioned a statement on the EFCC website, saying it did not clearly identify the state referenced.
“Let me also correct that what is published on the website of EFCC is certain state. I want to believe that it is not Lagos state because the state was not clear. So, it’s what is out there. So, I won’t also, you know, entertain that it is Lagos because that hasn’t been thrown at me,” she said.
On her business interests, Achimugu said her company acquired an oil block through due process.
“We went through that process and by the grace of God we won the process very transparently. It was a public process, it wasn’t selective,” she said.
Addressing her relationship with the Lagos governor, she said she has long had access to influential people.
“I have always had access to power and governance. I’m a known Nigerian. I have friends, and I have done well. I have not done anything that will make anyone stay away from me,” she said.
“If they are on a shore where I’m doing something, they pump in and celebrate with me. It is not a rare character or something new.
“I’m an entrepreneur and business owner. Having to know those who will increase my portfolio because it is very important to me. It is not about Governor Sanwo Olu at all.
“I started my business in 2001. My background is a decent family. My late husband was the MD of PPMCC. I met him in the course of the work. I actually met him doing business in NNPC.”
