Quick Summary:
Justice Hamza Muazu of the FCT High Court summons two key witnesses, Jim Obazee and Eloho Okpoziakpo, to testify in the ongoing $6.23 million fraud case against former CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele.
Justice Hamza Muazu of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court has summoned two key witnesses to testify in the ongoing trial of former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele, over an alleged $6.23 million fraud.
The witnesses, Jim Obazee and Eloho Okpoziakpo, are expected to appear before the court on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, to give evidence in the case.
EFCC’s 20-Count Charge
Emefiele is being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on an amended 20-count charge bordering on criminal breach of trust, forgery, abuse of office, and conspiracy to obtain money by false pretence.
The charges stem from allegations that the former apex bank chief misappropriated $6.23 million during his tenure as CBN Governor.
Court Issues Subpoena
In a subpoena dated April 27, 2026, Justice Muazu directed the witnesses to appear in court at 9:00 a.m. and to continue attending proceedings until the matter is concluded.
The court specifically instructed them to tender evidence, including newspaper publications related to the controversial Naira redesign policy, which formed part of the investigations leading to the charges.
Witnesses Linked To Investigation
According to the court, both Obazee and Okpoziakpo were involved in the investigations that led to the filing of charges against Emefiele and are expected to clarify issues surrounding the Naira redesign policy and its financial implications.
Their testimonies are anticipated to shed light on key aspects of the EFCC’s case, particularly the alleged misuse of funds and procedural irregularities during the implementation of the policy.
Background Of The Case
The case forms part of ongoing legal proceedings against Emefiele, who has faced multiple allegations of financial misconduct since leaving office.
The EFCC maintains that the former CBN Governor abused his position to authorise questionable transactions amounting to $6.23 million, while the defence has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
The matter is expected to resume on April 28, 2026, with the two witnesses taking the stand for examination and cross-examination.
