The trial proceedings for the former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) governor, Godwin Emefiele, are scheduled to commence on February 12.
Emefiele faces a re-arraignment by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on an amended 20-count charge, including allegations of criminal breach of trust, forgery, conspiracy to obtain by false pretense, and obtaining money by false pretense.
Justice Hamza Muazu of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Maitama, Abuja on Friday, announced the trial commencement, also allowing Emefiele to maintain the bail conditions granted earlier.
Initially charged on November 17, 2023, with six counts, the former CBN governor was accused of favoring a staff member, Sa’adatu Ramallan Yaro, leveraging his position.
After a bail grant on November 22, 2023, Emefiele was re-arraigned on January 18, 2024, facing amended charges. His legal team requested an adjournment to study the new charges, and on January 19, objections were raised during the reading of the charges, specifically regarding Count One.
Emefiele’s lead counsel, Mathew Burkaa, objected to Count One based on its framing, citing Section 221 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act. The prosecution, led by Rotimi Oyedepo, countered, asserting that objections should be raised after the plea. Justice Muazu clarified the procedure, noting the objection but allowing the proceedings to continue.
Emefiele pleaded not guilty to each charge, and the defense requested the continuation of bail conditions. The EFCC counsel expressed no objection, emphasizing the former CBN governor’s need to remain healthy for the trial. Justice Muazu adjourned the trial to February 12 and 13, 2024, while maintaining the bail conditions.