$4.5 Billion Fraud: EFCC Rejects Ex-CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele’s Application Over Court Jurisdiction

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has rejected an application filed by former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele, challenging the jurisdiction of the Special Offences Court in Ikeja, Lagos State. Emefiele is facing $4.5 billion and N2.8 billion fraud charges.

The EFCC, through its counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, described Emefiele’s application as “a ploy to frustrate the prosecution from conducting its constitutional mandate.” Oyedepo argued that the state high court has “unfettered jurisdiction” to hear and determine the case.

Emefiele’s lawyer, Olalekan Ojo, SAN, had contended that the court lacks jurisdiction, stating that the offence of abuse of office related to Emefiele’s former position as CBN Governor cannot be tried in a state high court. Ojo also argued that counts one to four of the 26-count charges against Emefiele “are unconstitutional” as they are not based on existing Nigerian laws.

Justice Rahman Oshodi has scheduled January 7, 2025, to rule on the jurisdiction challenge. Emefiele and his co-defendant, Herry Omoile, have pleaded not guilty to charges of accepting gratification, corruption, and fraudulent property receipts.