The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has opposed the request by the former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele to have his international passport released for an overseas medical trip.
In a request filed at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, Emefiele’s counsel, Abdulakeem Labi-Lawal, sought permission for his client to travel to the United Kingdom (UK) for medical treatment.
However, the EFCC countered this request on Monday, arguing there is no medical report presented to the court to justify the necessity of overseas treatment.
“The defendant has co-conspirators all over the world. One Anita and Tony are all aides of the defendant who are currently in the UK,” said Muhammad Abbas Omeiza, the prosecution counsel, adding, “The defendant might be tempted to jump bail because he is standing trial in three different courts.”
Omeiza highlighted that Emefiele’s passport was deposited with the court as part of his bail conditions, and emphasised there was no evidence that Emefiele’s ailment could not be treated in Nigeria.
After considering the arguments, Hamza Mua’zu, the presiding judge, adjourned the ruling on the application to July 16.
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