EFCC TO APPEAL COURT’S ACQUITTAL OF EX-EKITI GOVERNOR FAYOSE
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has announced its intention to appeal the Federal High Court’s ruling that acquitted former Ekiti State governor, Ayodele Fayose, of money laundering charges. The judgment was delivered by Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke on July 16, 2025, clearing Fayose and his company, Spotless Investment Limited, of an 11-count charge related to the alleged theft of N6.9 billion. The EFCC stated it is currently reviewing the judgment and preparing to file an appeal. In a statement from its Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, the commission reaffirmed its commitment to the rule of law. Fayose, who served as governor from 2003 to 2007 and again from 2014 to 2018, has consistently maintained his innocence regarding the charges. The charges were originally filed on July 2, 2019. The EFCC’s decision to appeal the ruling indicates its determination to pursue the case further. The commission’s statement did not provide further details on the grounds for the appeal, but it suggests that the EFCC believes the court’s decision may have been flawed in some way. The case has been ongoing for several years, and Fayose’s acquittal marks a significant development in the high-profile case. However, with the EFCC’s intention to appeal, the matter is far from over.