A Kano-born international businessman, Rabiu Auwalu Tijjani, has threatened legal action against the EFCC for allegedly damaging his reputation after declaring him wanted for money laundering.
Auwalu, based in the UAE, denied wrongdoing, saying his business dealings with Nigerian partner Ifeanyi Ezeokolu were legitimate and spanned $77 million over a year.
EFCC had accused him of obtaining \$1.9 million under false pretence, but Auwalu claims he was the one defrauded. “I sent dollars in exchange for naira using Ifeanyi’s 11 companies. Later, we discovered he had been overpaid,” Auwalu said.
He reported the case to the DSS, which advised a forensic audit.
Auditor Olumide Ajayi said preliminary findings revealed overpayments exceeding \$2 million, with Ifeanyi failing to provide records for two key firms involved.
Auwalu insists the matter is already in court and faults the EFCC for going public despite ongoing reconciliation. Ifeanyi declined comment, citing an active investigation. Auwalu vowed to clear his name, saying EFCC’s declaration was premature and unjustified.
