Adeyemi Ikuforiji, former Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, has expressed his immense relief and gratitude after the Federal High Court in Lagos dismissed the money laundering charges brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Ikuforiji described his 12-and-a-half-year trial as unjust persecution, stemming from a baseless allegation. He spoke to journalists at his office in Ikeja, stating, “My joy knows no bounds. I am extremely grateful to God. I was persecuted for 12 and a half years over a wrongful allegation.”
The former Speaker explained that the ordeal began with a petition to the EFCC alleging that the Lagos State House of Assembly had arm-twisted the governor to pay N500m monthly as running costs. Despite a thorough investigation, no evidence of misappropriation or stealing was found. Ikuforiji emphasized that the EFCC’s investigation revealed his office’s books to be “the neatest and most detailed” seen by the lead investigator.
Justice Mohammed Liman’s ruling, freeing Ikuforiji and his aide, Oyebode Atoyebi, of the 54 counts of money laundering, has brought an end to the prolonged legal battle. Ikuforiji expressed his gratitude to God and appreciated the support of his family, friends, and colleagues throughout the challenging period.