Trial Date Set For Emefiele in Corruption Case

A Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama has scheduled October 21 as the next phase in the trial of former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele.

This decision by Justice Hamza Muazu follows the conclusion of the cross-examination of Abibia Ockiya-Ogeleye, the ninth prosecution witness.

Ockiya-Ogeleye, a practicing attorney, testified under questioning from Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) counsel Rotimi Oyedepo. She detailed her involvement with Architekon Nigeria Limited in 2021, including preparing their annual report and facilitating changes in leadership and ownership.

Documents submitted as evidence included records of company shareholders and resolutions approving director appointments. Justice Muazu admitted these documents into evidence.

During cross-examination by defence counsel Mathew Burkaa (SAN), Ockiya-Ogeleye clarified aspects of her testimony, including her lack of face-to-face meetings with certain individuals mentioned in the documents.

Previously, eight prosecution witnesses, including Zenith Bank’s Mr. Umar Tilda, presented bank documents, including Emefiele’s bank statement, detailing transactions relevant to the case.

Tilda confirmed a transfer of N4 million from Emefiele’s account to Architekon on January 13, 2015, but could not specify its purpose. He also clarified details about Emefiele’s bank accounts but stated he was unaware of their specific uses.

The court adjourned proceedings until October 21 and scheduled July 8 to address Emefiele’s request for passport issuance to seek medical treatment abroad, despite his attorney’s statement that Emefiele had not pursued medical treatment since leaving office.

Emefiele faces multiple charges brought by the EFCC, alleging abuse of power during his tenure to benefit himself, his wife, colleagues, and two companies: April 1616 Nigeria Ltd and Architekon Nigeria Ltd.