The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has objected to former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Godwin Emefiele’s application to reclaim his passport for a medical trip to the United Kingdom.
EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale announced the anti-graft agency’s position in a statement on Monday. The objection came in response to an affidavit filed by Emefiele’s defense counsel, Labi Lawal, seeking the release of his client’s passport for medical treatment abroad.
Prosecution counsel Muhammad Abbas Omeiza argued that no medical report had been presented to the court demonstrating Emefiele’s need for treatment unavailable in Nigeria.
Omeiza emphasized that Emefiele’s passport was surrendered as part of his bail conditions, and its release would effectively alter these terms.
The EFCC counsel also raised concerns about flight risk, stating, “The defendant has co-conspirators all over the world. Anita and Tony are all aides of the defendant who are currently in the UK. The defendant might be tempted to jump bail because he is standing trial in three different courts.”
In response, the defense dismissed these arguments as speculative. Lawal suggested that if necessary, the prosecution could issue an international red alert to ensure Emefiele’s return if he failed to do so voluntarily after his medical trip.
This legal exchange follows earlier affidavits submitted by both parties on June 25, 2024, regarding the same matter.
After hearing both sides, Justice Mu’azu of the court adjourned the ruling on Emefiele’s application until July 16, 2024.
The case continues to draw attention as it involves a high-profile figure in Nigeria’s financial sector. Emefiele, who served as CBN Governor, is currently facing multiple trials, adding complexity to his request for international travel.
