A defence lawyer in the ongoing $4.5 billion fraud trial of former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Godwin Emefiele has accused the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of attempting to coerce a defendant into falsely implicating the ex-apex bank chief.
Counsel to the second defendant, Nnamdi Offial, told the Federal High Court on Thursday that EFCC operatives allegedly pressured his client, Henry Omoile, to make statements linking Emefiele to the alleged financial crimes.
Offial said his client firmly rejected the request, insisting he would not provide false testimony or statements that were not supported by facts. According to the defence, the alleged pressure undermines the integrity of the investigation and raises concerns about the credibility of the prosecution’s case.
Allegations and Charges
Emefiele and Omoile are facing charges bordering on conspiracy, abuse of office, and fraudulent procurement, with the prosecution alleging that the offences involve transactions valued at about $4.5 billion. The alleged infractions are said to have occurred during Emefiele’s tenure as governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria.
The EFCC maintains that the defendants used their official positions to confer undue advantages and unlawfully benefit from contract awards and related financial dealings. Emefiele has consistently denied all allegations, describing the charges as baseless and politically motivated.
Court Proceedings
The allegation of coercion arose during arguments over the admissibility and reliability of statements attributed to Omoile. The defence urged the court to disregard any evidence obtained under alleged duress, while insisting that due process must be upheld.
In response, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission denied any misconduct, stating that its investigation was conducted in line with the law and that it is ready to substantiate its case beyond reasonable doubt.
The trial was adjourned to a later date for continuation, as legal arguments and witness testimonies are expected to resume.
Abuja Network News
Tags
News