EFCC Arraigns Former CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele for Fraud
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has brought charges against Godwin Emefiele, the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, for an alleged $4.5 billion and N2.8 billion fraud. Emefiele was arraigned alongside Henry Omoile on an amended 26-count charge before Justice R.A. Oshodi of the Special Offences Court in Lagos.
The charges against Emefiele include abuse of office, accepting gratification, corrupt demand, receiving property fraudulently obtained, and conferring corrupt advantage. Omoile faces charges related to accepting gifts by agents. Both defendants pleaded not guilty to all charges.
According to the prosecution counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, Emefiele and Omoile have given themselves up for trial by pleading not guilty. He urged the court to grant accelerated hearing and allow the prosecution to call witnesses to prove their case.
Counsel representing the defendants requested bail for their clients, citing Emefiele’s compliance with previous bail conditions set by a Federal Capital Territory High Court. They argued that the offences were bailable and emphasized Emefiele’s previous attendance at trial, indicating that he is not a flight risk.
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Responding, Oyedepo acknowledged the court’s discretion in granting bail and urged for conditions that would ensure the defendants’ appearance for trial. He noted that there was a court order securing bail for the second defendant in a related case pending before Justice Oshodi.
Justice Oshodi adjourned the case till April 11, 2024, for ruling on bail and trial. Emefiele was remanded in EFCC custody, while the second defendant was remanded at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre. The court proceedings mark a significant development in the ongoing legal battle against corruption in Nigeria’s financial sector.
