Ekiti State former governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, on Thursday, honoured Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, invitation in Ilorin, Kwara State, following which he was interrogated over an alleged N4billion money laundering allegation.
Recall that in May 2023, Fayemi, through his lawyer, Adeola Omotunde, SAN, pleaded with the EFCC to allow him to present a book in honour of the former President, Muhammadu Buhari, on May 19, before honouring it’s invitation for questioning over money laundering allegations.
Fayemi, it was gathered, got to EFCC Ilorin office about 7.47a.m., on Thursday and was being interrogated at press time.
Though journalists were prevented from the commission’s office, it was learned that the probe is in connecting with the handling of funds during his tenure as governor of Ekiti State.
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The EFCC invitation to Fayemi, governor of Ekiti State from 2018 to 2022, by the zonal commander, Micheal Nzekwe, read: “The commission is investigating a case of money laundering in which the need to seek certain clarifications from you has become imperative.
“In view of this, you’re kindly requested to come for an interview with the undersigned through the Head, Economic Governance section. May 18, 2023. No. 10 Oko Close, off Station Road, GRA, Ilorin, Kwara State. Time 10hours.”
Asking for time, Fayemi had through his lawyer, Adeola Omotunde, SAN, in a letter dated May 15, Fayemi said he was one of the organisers and reviewer of one of the books published in Buhari’s honour.
The letter read: “Our client is in receipt of your letter of invitation dated May 12, 2023, for an appointment on May 18, 2023.
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“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 Buhari, entitled: ‘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 10a.m.
“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 programs between May 19, 2023, 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.”
