The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has taken Tunde Ayeni, the former chairman of the defunct Skye Bank Plc, into custody over allegations of money laundering and the misappropriation of funds.
Sources within the commission confirmed on Friday that the businessman was apprehended in Abuja on Thursday.
Ayeni is currently being interrogated regarding a massive fraud case involving approximately ₦36.6 billion and $30 million.
He remains in EFCC custody as the investigation continues.
“Ayeni was arrested sequel to the investigation of the EFCC into alleged misappropriation and diversion of funds to the tune of N36,540, 058,400,00 and 30 million dollars obtained from Polaris Bank plc by different entities linked to him.
“The funds were loans obtained allegedly for specific investment projects but subsequently transferred to other entities’ accounts.
“Investigations showed that, though the loans were obtained for purposes such as finance of marine security activities, electricity distribution contract, estate development, they were diverted to the NITEL/ MTEL asset acquisition through NATCOM account,” the source said.
He disclosed that 12 different companies linked to Ayeni are being investigated by the EFCC.
The companies were entities the former chairman allegedly used to obtain loans from Polaris bank for his activities.
“The loans are depositors’ funds fraudulently obtained and frittered into diverse wasteful purposes. Ayeni will be arraigned in due course upon conclusion of investigations.”
While confirming the arrest, EFCC spokesman Dele Oyewale declined to elaborate on the details of the case.
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