In the ongoing trial of former CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele, a Deputy Director, Onyeka Ogbu, revealed to a Federal Capital Territory High Court that he was aware of a $6.2 million payment request for international election observers.
Emefiele faces 20 charges by EFCC, including criminal conspiracy and breach of trust, accused of impersonating the SGF to illegitimately obtain $6.2m.
The prosecution witness, Ogbu, disclosed during proceedings that the payment request was made on January 8, 2023.
He stated that after reviewing the documents, he approved the disbursement, which was executed accordingly.
The document in question, titled "Re: Presidential directive on foreign election observer missions," dated January 26, 2023, was allegedly forged by Emefiele. Ogbu clarified that the request was received earlier, on January 8, 2023.
While all documents were presented, some pages were missing, prompting a temporary halt. The prosecution requested time to address the issue, but Emefiele's counsel objected, suggesting an adjournment for the prosecution to obtain certified true copies and for cross-examination.
Justice Hamza Muazu adjourned the trial continuation until Tuesday.