According to a letter dated May 12, the EFCC requested that the former governor to appear before the head of its zonal command office in Kwara State, Nigeria's North-Central, to answer questions about money laundering activities.
Kayode Fayemi, a former governor of Ekiti State, has been attempting to avoid a summon by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission over money laundering allegations, pleading with the commission to allow him to present a book in honor of the President, Muhammadu Buhari, on May 19, before honouring the agency's invitation.
According to a letter dated May 12, the EFCC requested that the former governor to appear before the head of its zonal command office in Kwara State, Nigeria's North-Central, to answer questions about money laundering activities.
The EFCC requested that Fayemi appeared before it on May 18 in a letter issued by its zone commander, Micheal Nzekwe.
The letter addressed to Fayemi, dated May 12, which was sighted on Tuesday night, reads, “The commission is investigating a case of money laundering in which the need to seek certain clarifications from you has become imperative.
“In view of this, you’re kindly requested to come for an interview with the undersigned through the Head, Economic Governance section. Thursday, May 18, 2023. No. 10 Oko close, off station road, GRA, Ilorin, Kwara State. Time: 10: 00 hours.”
Meanwhile, in another document seen by PUNCH on Tuesday night, the EFCC had invited Fayemi to appear before its Kwara Zonal Command on May 18 for questioning.
However, in a follow-up letter dated May 15, the ex-governor stated that he is one of the organisers and reviewers of one of the books published in Buhari's honour.
“Our client is in receipt of your letter of invitation dated 12th May 2023 for an appointment on Thursday, 18th of May, 2023,” Fayemi’s lawyer noted.
The letter reads, “Our client is engaged on the 18th day of May 2023 as he is preparing for a public presentation and launching of two new books in honour of President Muhammadu Buhari, titled: ‘State of Repair: How President Muhammad Buhari Tried to Change Nigeria For Good’ by Anthony Goldman and ‘The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari’ by Abu Ibrahim slated for 19th May 2023 at the Banquet Hall, State House, Abuja by 10:00 a.m.
“Our client is one of the organisers of the programme and will review one of the books. Our client has also committed himself to other programs between May 19, 2023 and May 24, 2023 before he received your invitation. We regret to inform you that our client will not be able to honour your invitation on the 18th May 2023 against the backdrop of the foregoing information.”
When contacted, EFCC spokesperson Wilson Uwujaren stated that he was unaware of the development.
“I am not aware of the development, but I’ll confirm and get back to you,” Uwujaren said.