Court Dismisses 4 Charges Against Ex-CBN Governor Emefiele
By DAYO ADESULU
Abuse of Office Charges Struck Out
On Wednesday, the Lagos High Court sitting in Ikeja struck out four counts of abuse of office charges against Godwin Emefiele, the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). The charges were brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) as part of a 26-count $2.1 billion fraud allegation.
Justice Rahman Oshodi ruled that the allegations regarding the allocation of foreign exchange without bidding, as outlined in counts 1–4, did not constitute an offense under any Nigerian law.
“Allocation of foreign exchange without reason is not defined as an offense in any written law,” Justice Oshodi stated. “The objection to counts one to four succeeds and is hereby struck out.”
Court Retains Jurisdiction Over Remaining Charges
Despite dismissing the four counts, Justice Oshodi ruled that the court had jurisdiction to try Emefiele on the remaining charges (counts 8–26). He cited constitutional and statutory provisions that supported the EFCC’s territorial jurisdiction and the validity of the evidence provided.
The court rejected Emefiele’s preliminary objection that challenged the court’s jurisdiction over the remaining charges, clearing the way for the trial to proceed.
Next Steps in the Legal Proceedings
With the abuse of office charges dismissed, the trial will now focus on the remaining allegations against the former CBN governor, which include alleged financial misappropriation and corruption.
Justice Oshodi adjourned the case to February 24, 2025, for the continuation of the trial.
Background and Implications
The case against Emefiele stems from allegations of mismanagement and fraud during his tenure as the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria. The outcome of the trial could have significant implications for the fight against corruption and governance in Nigeria.
