By Erewunmi Peace

A Federal High Court in Lagos has discharged and acquitted former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, of all money laundering and fraud charges brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The court ruled that the EFCC failed to prove a prima facie case against the former governor.

In a landmark judgment delivered on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, the Federal High Court in Lagos cleared former Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Ayodele Fayose, of all fraud and money laundering charges filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Fayose had been standing trial since 2018 over allegations of fraud involving ₦6.9 billion, part of which the EFCC claimed was sourced from the Office of the National Security Adviser during the Goodluck Jonathan administration.

However, in its ruling, the court upheld a “no-case submission” made by Fayose’s legal team, agreeing that the EFCC failed to establish any substantial evidence linking him to the alleged financial crimes.

Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke stated that the prosecution could not present sufficient material evidence to sustain the charges, which included criminal breach of trust, theft, and money laundering.

“The prosecution failed to prove its case beyond reasonable doubt. The court, therefore, has no reason to continue with the matter,” the judge ruled.

The ruling marks the end of a high-profile trial that has spanned nearly six years and drawn national attention.

Reacting to the judgment, Fayose described it as a victory for truth and justice. He thanked his legal team and supporters who stood by him throughout the trial.

Meanwhile, the EFCC has expressed dissatisfaction with the ruling and has indicated plans to appeal the judgment at the Court of Appeal.

Background:
Ayodele Fayose served as the Governor of Ekiti State from 2003 to 2006 and again from 2014 to 2018. His tenure was marked by both political influence and controversies, including this long-running corruption trial.