The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory in Maitama declined the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Godwin Emefiele’s request to travel to the United Kingdom for a medical check-up.
Emefiele faces a 20-count charge involving procurement fraud, obtaining by pretence, and forgery during his tenure at the apex bank. The court ruled that Emefiele did not provide sufficient justification for the medical trip and failed to present documentation of the appointment or invitation.
Despite stating he would be abroad from July 28 to September 10, he could not prove that his medical condition necessitated treatment abroad. The judge emphasized that Emefiele’s health issues could likely be addressed in Nigeria and noted his ongoing trials in three different courts. The court dismissed Emefiele’s application and upheld the trial continuation date.
The prosecution argued against the application, highlighting Emefiele’s lack of documented medical necessity and potential flight risk due to international connections. Emefiele’s counsel requested the release of his passport deposited as part of his bail conditions, emphasizing the speculative nature of the prosecution’s arguments.
The court adjourned to rule on the application following arguments from both parties. Emefiele faces allegations of forgery and conferring unfair advantages to certain companies during his time as CBN governor.
