The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested popular socialite Emeka Okonkwo, better known as E-Money, over alleged money laundering activities.
According to Channels Television, E-Money was apprehended by EFCC operatives in the Omole area of Lagos State and subsequently moved to the commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
His arrest follows reports that he was seen publicly spraying naira and U.S. dollar notes at an event, a practice deemed a violation of financial regulations in Nigeria. While the full details of the incident remain unclear, E-Money is said to have breached the Foreign Exchange (Monitoring and Miscellaneous Provisions) Act.
E-Money, who is the CEO of Emmy Cargoes Nigeria Limited and Five Star Music, is yet to respond publicly to the allegations. The EFCC has also not released an official statement at the time of this report.
This development adds to the EFCC’s recent series of high-profile arrests targeting naira abuse and financial misconduct. Just days ago, singer Terry Apala was also remanded for allegedly abusing the Nigerian currency.
In a related case, another well-known socialite, Aisha Achimugu, was arrested by the EFCC early Tuesday morning at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, shortly after returning from London.
Achimugu had been declared wanted in March over alleged criminal conspiracy and money laundering. Her lawyer, Chikaosolu Ojukwu (SAN), confirmed her arrest.
“Aisha Achimugu, who arrived voluntarily into the country from London, was arrested by the EFCC around 5 a.m. on Tuesday,” Ojukwu said.
He condemned the EFCC’s action, citing a violation of a court order and claiming the arrest was unjust.
“In light of what transpired in court on Monday, my client returned based on the undertaking before the court to honour the EFCC’s invitation but was arrested at the airport,” he added.
Ojukwu further revealed that Achimugu had begun a hunger strike in protest.
“She is a prisoner of conscience,” he said.
Her arrest came just one day after Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court, Abuja, ordered her to appear before the court and the EFCC.