Embattled businesswoman, Aisha Achimugu, has dismissed claims that her wealth is linked with the governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
Speaking during an appearance on Channels Television, Achimugu explained that she comes from a decent background and stated that she started her business in 2001.
PrimeTimes Nigeria reports that the founder of Oceangate Engineering Oil & Gas Ltd made headlines when she set the Caribbean Island of Grenada alight with a seven-day 50th birthday party attended by some of the crème de la crème of the Nigerian entertainment industry and prominent figures, including Sanwo-Olu.
Over a year later, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) declared Achimugu wanted for money laundering.
On April 29, 2025, EFCC arrested the businesswoman at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
In March 2026, a federal high court in Abuja granted an order of final forfeiture of $13 million allegedly linked to Achimugu and Oceangate Engineering Oil & Gas Ltd.
Speaking on her travails, Achimugu explained that the $13 million forfeited fund was not found at her residence, adding that $50,000 and ₦13 million belonging to her mother were found in her house.
She said, “My house was raided. Only $50,000 and ₦13 million belonging to my mom were found in my house and my personal belongings.
“I don’t know where Nigeria got the impression that I have $13 million in my house. I’m not a bank. I won’t keep $13 million in my house.”
Speaking on how she became wealthy and owned an oil block, the businesswoman said the oil block is owned by Oceangate Engineering Oil & Gas Ltd.
Achimugu said her company was awarded the oil block after a “competitive and transparent” bid process.
When asked about the video of Sanwo-Olu at her birthday party and her friendship with the Lagos governor, she responded that she has always had access to those in power because she is doing well for herself.
Achimugu added that Sanwo-Olu was one of the attendees at the birthday party because he was at the event location.
She said, “I have always had access to power and governance. I’m a known Nigerian. I have friends, and I have done well. I have not done anything that will make anyone stay away from me.
“If they are on a shore where I’m doing something, they pump in and celebrate with me. It is not a rare character or something new.
“I’m an entrepreneur and business owner. Having to know those who will increase my portfolio because it is very important to me. It is not about Governor Sanwo-Olu at all.
“I started my business in 2001. My background is a decent family. My late husband was the MD of PPMCC. I met him in the course of the work. I actually met him doing business in NNPC.”
When asked if her money came from one of her friends like Sanwo-Olu, she responded, “not at all”.