The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) commenced presenting its case against the suspended Central Bank governor, Godwin Emefiele, at an FCT High Court in Abuja. Emefiele faces amended charges including criminal conspiracy, conferring undue advantage, and breach of trust, among others, to which he pleaded not guilty.
The EFCC’s first witness, Onyeka Ogbu, a deputy director in CBN branch operations, testified about a $6.2 million payment for international election observers. The defense requested an adjournment to obtain more documents and prepare for cross-examination. The trial was adjourned until the following day by Justice Hamza Muazu.
Among the amended charges, Emefiele is accused of forging a document related to foreign election observer missions and conspiring to obtain $6.2 million from the CBN. Additionally, the EFCC alleges that Emefiele awarded the renovation contract of the CBN Governor’s lodge to a company where he and another individual are directors and majority shareholders.
Previously, Emefiele was charged with a breach of the procurement Act in the purchase of vehicles alongside Mrs. Sa’adatu Yaro and April 1616 Investment Limited, a company purported to belong to Yaro.
The EFCC’s case against Emefiele continues, shaping a significant legal battle with far-reaching implications.
NAN
