The immediate-past governor of Ekiti State, Kayode Fayemi, has written to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), seeking for delay in money laundering investigation against him in order to present a book in honour of the President Muhammadu Buhari, on May 19.

Fayemi was billed to appear before the EFCC on May 18 for questioning over money laundering allegations.

EFCC had in a letter dated May 12 asked the former governor to appear before the head of its zonal command office in Kwara State, to answer questions bordering on alleged money laundering activities.

According to the letter issued by the zonal commander, Micheal Nzekwe, the EFCC requested that Fayemi appear before it on May 18.

Part of the letter addressed to Fayemi reads: “The commission is investigating a case of money laundering in which the need to seek certain clarifications from you has become imperative.

“In view of this, you are kindly requested to come for an interview with the undersigned through the head, Economic Governance Section. Thursday, May 18, 2023. No. 10 Oko close, off Station Road, GRA, Ilorin, Kwara State. Time: 10: 00 hours.”

But, responding, Fayemi, through his legal counsel, Adeola Omotunde, in a letter dated May 15, said he is one of the organisers and reviewer of one of the books published in President Buhari’s honour.

Part of Fayemi’s letter reads: “Our client is in receipt of your letter of invitation dated 12th May 2023 for an appointment on Thursday, 18th of May, 2023.

“Our client is engaged on the 18th day of May 2023 as he is preparing for a public presentation and launching of two new books in honour of President Muhammadu Buhari, titled: ‘State of Repair: How President Muhammad Buhari Tried to Change Nigeria For Good’ by Anthony Goldman and ‘The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari’ by Abu Ibrahim slated for 19th May 2023 at the Banquet Hall, State House, Abuja by 10:00 a.m.

“Our client is one of the organisers of the programme and will review one of the books. Our client has also committed himself to other programs between May 19, 2023 and May 24, 2023 before he received your invitation. We regret to inform you that our client will not be able to honour your invitation on the 18th May 2023 against the backdrop of the foregoing information.”

Meanwhile, the spokesperson for the EFCC, Wilson Uwujaren, however, said he wasn’t aware of the development.

According to him, “I am not aware of the development, but I’ll confirm and get back to you.” (Leadership)