In a stunning revelation at the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Boss Mustapha, the Second Prosecution Witness, revealed the alleged forgery of former President Muhammadu Buhari’s signature to withdraw $6.2 million from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). The ongoing trial of former CBN governor, Godwin Emefiele, has unearthed a web of deceit and corruption, shaking the foundations of Nigeria’s financial integrity.
According to Mr. Mustapha, neither Buhari nor himself authorized the payment for international election observers during the 2023 general election. As the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, he adamantly denied any knowledge or involvement in the transaction throughout his tenure. He categorically stated, “I never came across such a document… this document did not emanate from the office of the President.”
Mr. Mustapha raised serious doubts about the authenticity of the correspondence provided by Emefiele, highlighting discrepancies in the reference numbers and letter format. He emphasized that presidential directives are typically conveyed through official channels, not by letters with obscure references and uncharacteristic endings. Furthermore, he debunked the existence of a “Special Appropriation Provision” and disavowed any association with financing foreign observers, citing his experience managing previous elections.
Challenged on the supposed 187th FEC meeting approval, Mr. Mustapha clarified that there was no such session, affirming that the meeting on January 18, 2023, marked the first of the year. He made it clear that foreign observer funding was never on the agenda nor received any FEC approval during that session.
The prosecution pressed Mr. Mustapha about the source of the approval letter, to which he vehemently denied any involvement, questioning the defective heading and references within the document. He further disclaimed knowledge of a “Special Taskforce” or the individual named Jibril Abubakar, refuting any collaboration with CBN personnel in this regard.
Under cross-examination, Mr. Mustapha firmly stated that he never received any portion of the contested funds and emphasized his unfamiliarity with Mr. Abubakar, distancing himself from any association with the alleged scandal. He also alluded to media allegations linking him to the embezzlement, underscoring his proactive approach in releasing a press statement to refute the claims and advocate for a thorough investigation.
As Mr. Mustapha’s testimony concluded, the trial was adjourned to March 7, 11, and 25, 2023, leaving a trail of unanswered questions and intensifying the intrigue surrounding the $6.2 million CBN scandal.
