The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court has approved the request of the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele, allowing him to travel outside of Abuja.
Emefiele, represented by his lawyer, Matthew Bukka, SAN, sought a modification of the terms in his bail conditions.
On November 22, 2023, Justice Hamza Muazu had granted Emefiele bail amounting to N300 million with two sureties in a similar sum, specifying that the sureties must possess landed property in the Maitama District of the FCT.
Additionally, the former CBN governor was prohibited from leaving the court’s jurisdiction and required to surrender all travel documents to the court.
During the recent proceedings, Bukka assured the court that Emefiele would adhere to the conditions, emphasizing the defendant’s commitment to not violating bail terms.
The defence counsel highlighted that the defendant’s travel documents were already in the court’s possession and stressed Emefiele’s standing, indicating a low risk of him fleeing.
Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, representing the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), did not raise objections but proposed an extra precaution.
Oyedepo suggested that, alongside the court holding the travel documents, Emefiele should provide a written undertaking affirming his commitment to remain in Nigeria throughout the trial.
The judge, in his ruling, granted Emefiele’s application but mandated that he must stay in the country until the conclusion of his trial.
The modified terms now allow Emefiele to travel, provided he adheres to the specified conditions aimed at ensuring his continued presence in Nigeria during the legal proceedings.
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