Scale of justice

Fraud

FRN vs Godwin Ifeanyi Emefiele (Former Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN)

Humans

Godwin Ifeanyi Emefiele

Money bag

$6,230,000.00
Amount allegedly defrauded

Money bag

Case Summary
The accused was alleged to have knowingly obtained by false pretence, the said sum, by falsely representing that the Secretary to the Government of the Federation vide a letter dated 26th January, 2023 with Ref No. SGFF.43/L.01/201 requested the Central Bank of Nigeria to provide a contingent logistic advance in the above said sum in line with Mr. President`s directive, a representation he knew to be false.

Calendar

806
Day(s) since arraignment

Gavel

Case Update
The prosecution requested an adjournment to present its last witness in the matter and sought leave of the court to tender a 2019 document in substitution for an earlier exhibit to avoid delays in the proceedings; the request was opposed by the defence counsel. The trial judge, however, held that the witness, being an investigator in the case, was vital to the just determination of the matter and granted the prosecution’s request.

Calendar

Date of Next Sitting
Apr 27, 2026

Court house

Hon. Justice Hamza Mu'azu
FCT High Court, Maitama, Abuja

Legislation

ACJA/ACJL Compliance
(complied)

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Case Information
Godwin Ifeanyi Emefiele
Presiding Judge & Designated Court
Hon. Justice Hamza Mu'azu, FCT High Court, Maitama, Abuja
Nature and Number of Charges
20-count amended charge bordering on conferment of corrupt advantages, conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, forgery, and obtaining by false pretenses.
Date of 1st Arraignment
Jan 19, 2024
Summary of Case
The accused was alleged to have knowingly obtained by false pretence, the said sum, by falsely representing that the Secretary to the Government of the Federation vide a letter dated 26th January, 2023 with Ref No. SGFF.43/L.01/201 requested the Central Bank of Nigeria to provide a contingent logistic advance in the above said sum in line with Mr. President`s directive, a representation he knew to be false.
Defendant(s) and Plea entered on Arraignment
1. Godwin Ifeanyi Emefiele (Former Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN) – Not guilty
Defence Counsel(s)
1. Mathew Burkaa SAN (Lawyer)
Prosecuting Agency
Economic and Financial Crimes Commission
Prosecutor(s)
1. Rotimi Oyedepo (Senior Advocate of Nigeria)
Status of Case
On Trial
Stage of Trial
Prosecution Stage
Length of Trial
806 day(s)
Case Update
The prosecution requested an adjournment to present its last witness in the matter and sought leave of the court to tender a 2019 document in substitution for an earlier exhibit to avoid delays in the proceedings; the request was opposed by the defence counsel. The trial judge, however, held that the witness, being an investigator in the case, was vital to the just determination of the matter and granted the prosecution’s request.
ACJA/ACJL Compliance
Complied
Download Case Summary