Ni’imaThe Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed a N10bn fundamental rights suit filed by Abuja-based businesswoman, Aisha Achimugu, against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission over the search of her residence and seizure of her properties.
The EFCC disclosed this in a statement on Monday, saying Justice M.S. Liman ruled that the commission had the power to search Achimugu’s residence after receiving intelligence concerning her alleged criminal activities.
Achimugu had approached the court to challenge the search of her home and the seizure of her cars, jewellery and other belongings, arguing that the actions violated her right to privacy.
She also sought an order restraining the commission from allegedly threatening, harassing or invading her residence, alongside N10bn in damages.
According to the EFCC, the judge held that Achimugu and her legal representatives failed to establish sufficient grounds to justify the damages sought.
The commission quoted the court as describing the suit as lacking merit, frivolous and brought in bad faith.
Reacting to the judgment, EFCC counsel, Emenike Mgbemele, described the decision as being in the interest of justice, alleging that the suit was an attempt to waste the court’s time.
The ruling comes amid the commission’s ongoing enforcement activities against alleged financial crimes.
