The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has invited former governor of Ekiti State, Kayode Fayemi, for questioning over his alleged involvement in a N4 billion fraud.
According to Punch, Fayemi arrived at the EFCC zonal headquarters in Ilorin, Kwara state around 9:40am on Thursday for interrogation.
It has been reported that the former Governor was invited earlier but pleaded with the EFCC to allow him to present a book in honour of the former President, Muhammadu Buhari, on May 19, before honouring the invitation.
According to the letter issued by its zonal commander Micheal Nzekwe, the EFCC requested that Mr Fayemi appear before it on May 18.
The letter 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.”
However, in a follow-up letter through his legal counsel, Adeola Omotunde, SAN, dated May 15, Fayemi said he was one of the organisers and reviewer 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,” Mr Fayemi’s lawyer noted.
It 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”.
Details of what transpired during the visit couldn’t be confirmed as at the time of filing this report.
Fayemi served as Governor in Ekiti State for two terms: 2010-2014 and 2018-2022