In a stunning turn of events, former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Godwin Emefiele, is currently in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Ogunwatch can exclusively report that Emefiele, who was recently released from the Department of State Services’ detention, is now facing a fresh ordeal at the hands of the anti-graft agency.
Reliable sources have revealed that Emefiele was apprehended by EFCC operatives just hours after his release from the Department of State Services. He is presently undergoing questioning at the EFCC’s National Headquarters in Jabi, Abuja.
The investigation reportedly centers around alleged financial impropriety during his tenure as the head of the Central Bank of Nigeria.
While details of the new charges remain undisclosed, our sources indicate that fresh allegations may be filed against Mr. Emefiele by the EFCC. As of the time of reporting, the EFCC’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, was unavailable for official confirmation.
This development comes after Emefiele spent several months in DSS custody, during which he faced a series of legal challenges. Notably, he was suspended from his position by President Bola Tinubu, who instructed him to transfer his responsibilities to Folashodun Adebisi Shonubi, the former Deputy Governor of the Operations Directorate at the apex bank.
Emefiele’s detention by the DSS was initially attributed to “investigative reasons.” Subsequently, he was arraigned on a two-count charge related to the “illegal possession” of firearms, though the charges were later withdrawn by the Federal Government.
A new 20-count charge was subsequently brought against Emefiele, accusing him of involvement in procurement fraud and other offenses. However, his arraignment on these charges has been delayed, and reports suggest that he proposed a plea bargain agreement to the Federal Government, which reportedly includes his resignation as CBN governor and the surrender of certain assets.
The situation surrounding Emefiele’s detention continues to evolve, and Ogunwatch will provide updates on this ongoing story as more information becomes available.
