Emefiele Trial Continues as Witness Alleges Forged Papers Used to Access $6.23m

The Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja has heard details of how $6.23 million was allegedly withdrawn from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) using forged approval documents, as the trial of former CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele, continued.

A prosecution witness told the court that the cash withdrawal took place in February 2023 and was presented as funds meant for election-related logistics, including the payment of international observers.

According to the witness, he was approached by an individual who claimed to be acting on behalf of a special government committee and insisted that presidential approval had been obtained for the transaction. He said the next step was to secure authorization from the then CBN governor.

The witness explained that although he did not personally collect the cash, he facilitated the process by recommending another official who eventually handled the withdrawal at the CBN branch.

He further testified that after the money was released, part of the sum was taken away by the individuals who initiated the request, while another portion was left behind without clear justification. He described the amount as unusually large and said it raised concerns due to the bank’s strict internal procedures.

Under cross-examination, the witness admitted he did not directly see who signed the approval documents but maintained that the paperwork was forged, citing irregularities in the process and the nature of the transaction.

The witness also confirmed that the funds were linked to election-related activities but said he only later realized that the transaction may have been fraudulent.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is prosecuting Emefiele on multiple charges, including abuse of office and obtaining money under false pretences. The case has been adjourned for further hearing.