Aisha Achimugu, a businesswoman, has denied claims that her wealth was as a result of her association with Babajide Sanwo-Olu, governor of Lagos state.
Speaking in an interview with Channels Television on Monday, Achimugu, founder of Oceangate Engineering Oil & Gas Ltd, said she started engaging in business in 2001.
In January 2024, Achimugu made the headlines when she set the Caribbean Island of Grenada alight with a seven-day 50th birthday party attended by some of the crème de la crème of the Nigerian entertainment industry and prominent figures — including Sanwo-Olu.
Over a year after, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) declared Achimugu wanted over money laundering allegations.
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On April 29, 2025, EFCC arrested the business woman at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
In March 2026, a federal high court in Abuja granted an order of final forfeiture of the sum of $13 million allegedly linked to Achimugu, and Oceangate Engineering Oil & Gas Ltd.
Emeka Nwite, presiding judge, had held that the EFCC was able to prove that the funds were proceeds of fraud.
After the judgment, the firm said it has commenced the process of filing an appeal against the final forfeiture order.
Amid the controversy of the funds allegedly linked to Achimugu’s firm, there were reports alleging that the businesswoman was being sponsored by some politicians.
Asked about the $13 million forfeited fund, Achimugu said she will not disclose the details of the $13 million fund since the matter is in the court.
The businesswoman said the $13 million fund was not found in her residence, adding that $50,000 and N13 million, belonging to her mother, was found in her house.
“My house was raided. Only $50,000 and N13 million belonging to my mom was found in my house and my personal belongings,” she said.
“I don’t know where Nigeria got the impression that I have $13 million in my house. I’m not a bank. I won’t keep $13 million in my house.”
Speaking on how she became wealthy and owned an oil block, the businesswoman said the oil block is owned by Oceangate Engineering Oil & Gas Ltd.
Achimugu said her company was awarded the oil block after a “competitive and transparent” bid process.
When asked about the video of Sanwo-Olu at her birthday party and her friendship with the Lagos governor, she responded that she has always had access to those in power because she is doing well for herself.
Achimugu added that Sanwo-Olu was one of the attendees of the birthday party since he was in the location of the event.
“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.”
When asked if her money came from one of her friends like Sanwo-Olu, she responded, “not at all”.
