The trial of the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele, witnessed a dramatic turn on Thursday as a prosecution witness told the court that he alone was responsible for the alleged illegal withdrawal of $2.5 million from the apex bank, Vanguard reports.
The witness, who appeared before the Federal High Court sitting in Lagos, made the disclosure while giving evidence in the ongoing case involving allegations of financial misconduct against the former CBN governor. His testimony appeared to contradict earlier claims linking Emefiele directly to the controversial transaction.
According to Vanguard, the witness told the court that the $2.5 million was withdrawn without the knowledge or direct approval of Emefiele. He admitted that he initiated and facilitated the withdrawal, insisting that the former CBN governor neither instructed him nor benefited personally from the transaction.
The witness explained that the funds were allegedly withdrawn under the guise of official assignments but were later misapplied. He stated that he acted beyond his mandate and failed to follow due process, adding that he was now ready to accept full responsibility for his actions.
During cross-examination, defence counsel pressed the witness to clarify whether Emefiele signed any document authorising the withdrawal. In response, the witness maintained that although some documents bore official endorsements, the former CBN governor was not fully briefed on the details surrounding the transaction.
Vanguard reports that the prosecution, led by counsel for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), challenged the witness’s claims, suggesting that the withdrawal could not have been executed without the knowledge of top officials at the bank. The prosecution argued that the funds were moved through official CBN channels, raising questions about internal controls and oversight.
However, the witness insisted that lapses within the system were exploited and that he took advantage of the trust reposed in him. He added that fear and loyalty at the time prevented him from speaking out earlier, but he decided to tell the truth in court.
The revelation sparked reactions in the courtroom, with observers noting that the testimony could significantly affect the direction of the trial. Legal analysts say the admission may weaken aspects of the prosecution’s case, particularly if corroborated by documentary evidence
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