Fayemi Speaks Out About EFCC Probe Into Alleged N4 Billion Fraud
Dr Kayode Fayemi, the former governor of Ekiti State, has denied reports that he is being investigated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for an alleged N4 billion fraud.
In a statement issued on Friday, June 2, by the Head of the Fayemi Media Office in Abuja, Mallam Ahmad Sajoh, the former Chairman of the Governors’ Forum stated that no such allegation was raised during his visit to the EFCC as he engaged officials of the anti-graft agency.
The statement, on the other hand, stated that all Fayemi did during his interaction with EFCC officials in Ilorin, Kwara State, was respond to a frivolous petition from a group attempting to tarnish his good name and image.
“We would like to address the concerns raised by the invitation and subsequent visit of Dr Kayode Fayemi, the immediate past governor of Ekiti State and former Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s Ilorin Zonal Office,” the statement said.
“Last month, Dr. Fayemi received an invitation from the EFCC’s Ilorin office regarding a money laundering petition filed against him.” It was at the height of the preparations for the change of government, with numerous activities and programmes planned as part of the occasion.
“As a key member of the APC, Dr Fayemi was already committed to playing important roles at these events, and his absence would have had a significant impact on them.” Understanding the gravity of his obligations at the time, Dr. Fayemi informed the EFCC of his willingness to cooperate but requested a more convenient date for his appearance.”
According to the statement, Fayemi, accompanied by his counsel, visited the EFCC office in Ilorin on Thursday and engaged in fruitful discussions with the investigators before being allowed to leave after a few hours.
“We firmly believe that Dr. Fayemi’s visit has provided answers to the agency’s inquiries regarding the petition,” it continued. However, if additional clarification is required, Dr. Fayemi is willing to provide it.
“We would also like to point out that, contrary to reports circulating about a purported N4b fraud case against Dr Fayemi, no such allegation was raised in his conversation with the EFCC.”
“All he did was respond to a frivolous petition from a faceless group, the so-called Ekiti Patriotic Coalition, which we strongly suspected was a front for some anti-Fayemi politicians out to tarnish the former governor’s good name and image.”
The statement went on to say that Fayemi served the people of Ekiti State with zeal throughout his tenure and was known for his principled leadership.
