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EFCC Throws Roadblocks On The Release Of Emefiele’s Passport For Medical Trip

Published

6 months ago

Jul 9, 2024.

EFCC contests former CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele’s application to release his passport for a medical trip to the UK, citing insufficient medical justification and potential bail violation.

the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has contested former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Godwin Emefiele’s application to release his passport for a medical trip to the United Kingdom.

During Monday’s hearing, EFCC prosecution counsel Muhammad Omeiza argued against the motion filed by Emefiele’s defense, led by Abdulakeem Labi-Lawal.

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The defense had submitted an affidavit on June 25, 2024, asserting Emefiele’s need to travel abroad for medical treatment.

Omeiza countered that no medical report was provided to justify the necessity for treatment abroad or to prove that the ailment couldn’t be treated in Nigeria. He also emphasized that releasing Emefiele’s passport could violate his bail conditions, which required its surrender.

The EFCC raised concerns about Emefiele’s potential as a flight risk, noting his connections overseas, including co-conspirators residing in the UK.

“The defendant might be tempted to jump bail because he is standing trial in three different courts,” Omeiza explained, highlighting the gravity of the charges against Emefiele.

Responding to the prosecution’s stance, Labi-Lawal dismissed their concerns as speculative. He suggested that should Emefiele not return from his medical trip, and the prosecution could issue an international red alert to facilitate his arrest.

After hearing from both sides, Justice Hamza Mu’azu adjourned the ruling on the application to July 16, 2024. The outcome of this decision could significantly impact Emefiele’s ability to travel abroad for medical purposes.

EFCC Emefiele’s Passport Medical Trip

Emefiele is currently facing multiple charges across three separate courts. With Justice Mu’azu, he is accused of procurement fraud, forgery of former President Muhammadu Buhari’s signature, and other related charges.