The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has opposed former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) governor Godwin Emefiele's application to retrieve his passport for a medical trip abroad.
EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale reported that Emefiele's defense, represented by Labi-Lawal, submitted an affidavit requesting permission for Emefiele to travel to the UK for medical treatment. However, the EFCC objected.
Prosecution counsel Muhammad Abbas Omeiza argued there was no medical evidence presented to the court that Emefiele's condition required overseas treatment. Omeiza emphasized that releasing Emefiele’s passport would alter his bail conditions, noting the former governor's potential flight risk due to his international connections.
The defense countered these claims as speculative and suggested that an international red alert could be issued if Emefiele failed to return from his medical trip.
Justice Mu’azu, after hearing arguments from both sides, postponed the ruling on the application to July 16, 2024.
Emefiele is currently facing multiple trials. He is charged with procurement fraud and forgery of former President Muhammadu Buhari’s signature before Justice Mu’azu. Additionally, Emefiele faces fraud charges involving $4.5 billion and N2.8 billion at the Special Offences Court in Lagos, and another case involving the printing of N684.5 million notes at a cost of N18.96 billion before the FCT High Court in Abuja.
