In a recent development at the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Justice Hamza Muazu has approved the travel request made by Godwin Emefiele, the former Governor of the Central Bank. However, Emefiele is required to stay within the borders of the country as part of the revised bail terms imposed by the court.
Emefiele, through his legal representative, Mathew Bukka, SAN, sought a modification of the bail terms initially restricting him to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) did not raise objections to this request, but insisted that Emefiele provide a written undertaking affirming his commitment to remain in the country.
The charges against Emefiele have undergone a significant amendment, increasing from 6 to 20 counts. The revised charges now encompass criminal breach of trust, forgery, conspiracy to commit forgery, procurement fraud, and conspiracy to commit felony.
Emefiele had previously been granted bail on December 24, 2023, with a financial bond of N300 million and two sureties. His release from the Kuje Correctional Centre followed the fulfillment of these bail conditions by his legal team.
The former CBN governor is facing allegations related to procurement fraud, specifically the awarding of a contract for the procurement of 43 vehicles worth N1.2 billion between 2018 and 2020, leading to charges of using his position to confer a corrupt advantage.
During his time in custody, Emefiele was required to surrender his travel documents to the court registrar and remain within the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC).
The trial regarding the alleged procurement irregularities is currently underway before Justice Hamza Muazu. Emefiele’s legal battles began in June, following his suspension as the CBN governor by President Bola Tinubu, and subsequent arrest by the Department of State Services (DSS).
Emefiele had contested his detention by the DSS, and Justice Hamza Muazu had issued a one-week ultimatum for either charging him to court or releasing him during the ruling on the fundamental human rights suit filed by Emefiele.
