EFCC Catechize Fayemi over misappropriation of N4bn, money laundering

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has quizzed former Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi over alleged money laundering and misappropriation of N4 billion.

A source close to the anti-graft agency said Fayemi arrived at the EFCC facility around 10 a.m yesterday and was drilled by its operatives.

The source said the former governor was at the zonal command of the anti-graft agency on Oko Close, Off Station Road, Ilorin, the Kwara State capita, for interrogation over the alleged fraud.

According to the source, EFCC is interrogating the former governor over allegations of misappropriation of N4 billion and money laundering.

The probe is said to be connected to the handling of funds during his tenure as governor of Ekiti State.

Fayemi was governor of the state from 2018 to 2022 and handed over to Biodun Oyebanji in June 2022.

The anti-graft agency had, in a letter, dated May 12, invited the former governor to appear at its Kwara State office on May 18 over allegations bordering on money laundering and misappropriation of public fund.

The commission, in a letter by Michael Nzekwe, said: “The commission is investigating a case of money laundering in which the need to seek certain clarification from you has become imperative.

“In view of this, you are kindly requested to come for an interview with the undersigned through the Head, Economic Governance Section, on Thursday, May 18, 2023, at 10 Oko Close, off Station Road, GRA, Ilorin, Kwara State. Time: 10:00 hours.”

Fayemi had written the commission, seeking to delay his invitation over the allegation.

Responding through his lawyer, Adeola Omotunde, in a letter, dated May 15, the former governor said he was one of the organisers and a reviewer of one of the books published in (former) President Muhammadu Buhari’s honour.

“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 one of the organisers of the programme and will review one of the books,” the letter said.

It was learnt that the EFCC okayed the request of the former governor but immediately went into action after the presidential swearing-in.