From Premium Times Nigeria · Falmata Daniel · · 1m 50s
EFCC, Emefiele differ over evidence in alleged fraudulent $6.23m CBN withdrawal trial
Former CBN governor Godwin Emefiele faces no-case submission challenge in $6.23m fraud trial with EFCC.
In brief
Former CBN governor Godwin Emefiele faces no-case submission challenge in $6.23m fraud trial with EFCC. Former CBN governor Godwin Emefiele's defense claims no credible evidence links him to $6.23m CBN withdrawal fraud charges. Originally reported by Premium Times Nigeria.
No-case submission challenge
The FCT High Court adjourned for a ruling on former CBN governor Godwin Emefiele's no-case submission seeking dismissal of $6.23 million fraud charges midway into trial.
Emefiele's defense argument
Emefiele's lawyer claims no credible evidence shows he benefited from contracts with companies linked to his close associates or manipulated the tender process.
Prosecution's counter
Prosecution argues Emefiele awarded contracts to relatives without proper tender board scrutiny, creating unfair advantages and breaching trust.
Alleged forged documents
EFCC claims the $6.23 million withdrawal relied on a forged letter from the SGF dated 26 January 2023 purporting to show President Buhari's approval.
Signature forgery claims
Emefiele's lawyer notes his signature was allegedly forged by then-Secretary to the Government of the Federation Boss Mustapha and former President Buhari.
Prosecution witnesses
Prosecution called 15 witnesses including former CBN branch controller Ogau Michael and financial expert Jim Obazee who uncovered corruption scandals.
No-case submission details
Emefiele's lawyer argues 14 out of 20 charges relate to contracts with companies where his wife and in-law were directors, but no evidence shows manipulation.
Signature testing
Emefiele's lawyer questions why his signature wasn't forensically tested during prolonged custody despite EFCC's claims of forgery.
Prosecution's stance
Prosecution maintains Emefiele's contracts bypassed tender board scrutiny, creating unfair advantages and breaching public trust with the $6.23 million withdrawal.
Key evidence
Prosecution evidence includes testimony that Emefiele's lawyer Collins Omeife had $2 million found with him, allegedly belonging to Emefiele.
Court ruling
The judge reserved his ruling on the no-case submission after hearing arguments from both sides.
What matters most
Former CBN governor Godwin Emefiele's defense claims no credible evidence links him to $6.23m CBN withdrawal fraud charges.
