EFCC Arrests Former Skye Bank Chairman Ayeni Over Alleged N36bn, $30m Fraud

By Victor Idajili

The EFCC has taken Tunde Ayeni, ex-Chairman of the defunct Skye Bank Plc, into custody as part of its ongoing investigation into allegations of N36.54 billion and $30 million fraud.  

The businessman was being detained at a facility for investigation for alleged laundering, misappropriation and diversion of the said sums.

Activities of 12 companies allegedly linked to him were also under probe yesterday.

According to a top source, Ayeni was arrested in Abuja on Thursday.

The source said: “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 $30m obtained from Polaris Bank Plc by different entities linked to him.

“The funds were loans allegedly obtained for specific investment projects but subsequently transferred to other entities’ accounts.  

“Investigations showed that although the loans were obtained for purposes such as finance of marine security activities, electricity distribution contract and estate development, they were diverted to the NITEL/ MTEL asset acquisition through NATCOM account.”

The source said the investigation has been extended to some companies linked to Ayeni.

“Twelve different companies linked to Ayeni are being investigated by the EFCC.

“They are entities he allegedly used to obtain loans from Polaris Bank for his shady 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,” he added.

The Head of Media and Publicity of the EFCC, Dele Oyewale, when contacted, confirmed the arrest.

He, however, declined to give further details.