Fani-Kayode Cleared in Final Case After 18-Year Legal Battle with EFCC
In a landmark conclusion to an 18-year legal saga, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, a prominent Nigerian politician and former Minister of Aviation, has been discharged and acquitted in the last of four major criminal cases brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The final ruling, delivered by Hon. Justice Olubunmi Abike-Fadipe of the Lagos State High Court, marks the end of a protracted legal battle that spanned multiple courts and judges.
Fani-Kayode, who faced a series of prosecutions and appeals initiated by the EFCC since 2008, has emerged victorious in all four cases. Speaking after the verdict, he expressed relief and gratitude, stating, “This has been a long and arduous journey, but I have always maintained my innocence. Today, justice has been served.”
### A Legal Marathon: 18 Years of Trials and Triumphs
1. **First Case (2008–2015):**
Fani-Kayode’s legal troubles began in 2008 when the EFCC brought charges against him at the Federal High Court in Lagos. The case was presided over by three judges: Hon. Justice Ahmad, Hon. Justice Binta Nyarku, and finally Hon. Justice Rita Ofili-Ajumogobia. On July 1, 2015, Justice Ofili-Ajumogobia discharged and acquitted him of all charges.
2. **Second Case (2016–2023):**
In 2016, the EFCC initiated another prosecution against Fani-Kayode at the Federal High Court in Lagos. The case was heard by Hon. Justice M.S. Hassan, Hon. Justice Aikawa, and later Hon. Justice Oziagor. The charges were ultimately quashed by the Court of Appeal in Lagos on April 21, 2023.
3. **Third Case (2016–2025):**
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Simultaneously, Fani-Kayode faced prosecution at the Federal High Court in Abuja before Hon. Justice John Tsoho, the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court. On January 15, 2025, Justice Tsoho discharged him on all counts, further solidifying his legal victories.
4. **Fourth Case (2021–2025):**
The final case, which began in 2021, was heard at the Lagos State High Court before Hon. Justice Olubunmi Abike-Fadipe. Today, February 4, 2025, Justice Abike-Fadipe discharged Fani-Kayode on all counts, bringing the 18-year legal ordeal to a close.
Reactions and Implications
Fani-Kayode’s legal team hailed the verdicts as a testament to his innocence and a vindication of his long-standing claims of being unfairly targeted. Supporters and political allies have celebrated the outcome, calling it a victory for the rule of law and judicial independence in Nigeria.
The EFCC, however, has yet to issue an official statement regarding the conclusion of the cases. Legal analysts have noted that the prolonged nature of the prosecutions highlights systemic challenges within Nigeria’s judicial system, including delays and the complexity of high-profile cases.
As Fani-Kayode steps out of the courtroom for the final time, he has expressed a desire to focus on his family and continue contributing to national development. “This chapter is closed,” he said. “Now, I look forward to serving my country in new ways and moving forward with my life.”
The resolution of this high-profile case is expected to spark broader discussions about the efficiency and fairness of Nigeria’s legal system, particularly in cases involving political figures. For now, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode’s story stands as a remarkable example of resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity.
By PRNigeria
