A Federal High Court in Abuja has granted a deadline of January 25 to former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele, to personally appear in court and provide an explanation regarding the $53 million-judgment debt arising from the Paris Club refund.
Justice Inyang Ekwo, in a concise ruling on Tuesday, has given Emefiele one last opportunity to make a personal appearance. Failure to do so would result in the issuance of an arrest warrant.
This decision came after a plea from Emefiele and CBN’s counsel, Audu Anuga, SAN, stating that all attempts to ensure Emefiele’s appearance as ordered by the court had been unsuccessful due to his current state of custody.
Anuga informed the court that an affidavit explaining why an arrest warrant should not be issued against Emefiele was filed on October 30.
Justice Ekwo then inquired of I.A. Nnana, the legal representative of Mr. Joe Agi, SAN, the judgment creditor/applicant in the case, whether he had been served with the affidavit.
Nnana responded, stating that they were served on Monday, nearly at the close of business, and that they would like to respond accordingly.
The judge, cautioning Anuga about the late filing of documents, reminded him that the case was initially brought before the court on July 19.
The senior lawyer, however, explained that every possible effort was made until Friday (Oct. 27) to secure the release of Emefiele in compliance with the court’s order. Unfortunately, the order was not followed, leading to the filing of the affidavit.
Anuga then requested that, since settlement negotiations had been ongoing and the CBN had a new governor, they should be given the opportunity to pursue a settlement.
Justice Ekwo, however, insisted that Emefiele must appear on the next adjourned date.
“As for the 4th respondent (Emefiele), I have always maintained that contempt proceedings follow an individual, regardless of their current situation.
“In this case, I have granted this particular individual ample freedom and leniency, yet the situation remains unchanged.
“I will adjourn the matter, as the other party has expressed their intent to respond to the filed affidavit, hence there is no further discussion at this time.
“The court’s orders must be complied with, and even if no one else adheres to them, the court must adhere to its own.
“I will give you sufficient time,” he stated.
Consequently, the judge adjourned the case until January 25, when Emefiele will have the opportunity to show cause as to why an arrest warrant should not be issued against him.