The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has announced its decision to appeal the judgement of the Federal High Court in Lagos, which on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, discharged and acquitted former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, of money laundering charges.
Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke, in his ruling, cleared Ayodele Fayose and his company, Spotless Investment Ltd, of the 11-count charge filed against them by the EFCC.
The charges, initially filed on July 2, 2019, involved allegations of money laundering and the theft of N6.9 billion.
In response to the verdict, the EFCC, through a statement issued on Wednesday by its Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, said it is reviewing the judgement and has initiated the process of filing an appeal.
The statement party read, “Sequel to the judgment of Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke of the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, acquitting and discharging a former Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Ayo Fayose from an alleged money laundering case preferred against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, the Commission wishes to state that it is already studying the ruling and preparing for an appeal.
“The EFCC reaffirms its commitment to the rule of law as it briefs its counsel to appeal the judgment.”
Fayose, who governed Ekiti State from 2003 to 2007, and again from 2014 to 2018, has consistently asserted his innocence since the charges were filed against him.
