In the ongoing trial of Mr. Godwin Emefiele, a former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), a Seventh Prosecution Witness (PW7) provided pertinent insights on Monday, March 11, 2024, before Justice Hamza Muazu of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Abuja. The witness, identified as Agboro Michael, an investigator with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offenses Commission (ICPC), detailed how Mr. Emefiele purportedly endorsed and sanctioned the allocation and disbursement of contracts to April 1616 Investment Limited and Architekon Nigeria Limited. These companies allegedly have affiliations with Sa’adatu Ramalan Yero, Mr. Emefiele’s wife, Margaret Emefiele, and his relative.
During his testimony, Michael, led by the prosecution counsel Rotimi Oyedepo, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), highlighted concerns regarding the procurement processes. He revealed that approximately 45 contracts were awarded to supply Toyota vehicles to these companies, notwithstanding the absence of accreditation from Toyota. Notably, Sa’adatu Ramalan Yero and her affiliates held directorial roles in these entities. Michael emphasized documentary evidence, such as ‘F1’, indicating Mr. Emefiele’s approval of substantial payments, including N854,700,000 and N1,085,700,000 for various procurements.
Further delving into financial transactions, Michael elucidated credits amounting to millions deposited into the accounts of April 1616 Investment Limited. These credits, as per exhibit P26, revealed substantial sums transferred from the CBN to the said company. Moreover, Michael detailed instances where Mr. Emefiele allegedly facilitated corrupt advantages for Sa’adatu Ramalan Yero, including the procurement of a Toyota Land Cruiser V8 and renovation of the CBN Governors’ residence, benefiting Architekon Nigeria Limited, a company linked to Mr. Emefiele’s wife and brother-in-law.
Under cross-examination by the defense counsel, Matthew Burkaa SAN, Michael clarified Mr. Emefiele’s central role in approving these transactions, distinguishing his accountability from other signatories involved. Additionally, Burkaa attempted to submit Mr. Emefiele’s statement at the Nigerian Police Force as evidence, which was met with objection from Oyedepo on the grounds of certification requirements for public documents. Burkaa withdrew the document, pledging to furnish a certified copy on the next court date.
Justice Muazu adjourned the proceedings until April 25 and 26, 2024, for the continuation of the trial.
