The Federal High Court in Lagos has scheduled a ruling for November 1, 2024, regarding the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) application for the final forfeiture of $2.045 million, along with seven valuable properties and shares linked to former Central Bank of Nigeria Governor Godwin Emefiele. On the same date, the court will address Emefiele’s request for a stay of proceedings.
On August 15, 2024, the court had granted the EFCC temporary custody of Emefiele’s assets, directing the commission to publish the order for interested parties to contest the forfeiture. At the latest hearing on October 11, EFCC counsel Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN) moved for the final forfeiture, stating the sum and properties were unchallenged....Read Full Article [Click Here>]
In response, Emefiele’s counsel, Olalekan Ojo, argued that Emefiele had demonstrated sufficient grounds against the forfeiture. He urged the court to refuse the EFCC’s application, noting the court’s earlier refusal to stay proceedings. Ojo insisted, “We’re urging your lordship to stay proceedings pending the hearing and determination of the appeal court in order to avoid judicial rascality.” Oyedepo countered, asserting that Emefiele’s appeal was premature and lacked proper judicial grounds, stating, “How can the defendant in this case rush to the Court of Appeal?” Justice Deinde Dipeolu ultimately dismissed Ojo’s request for a stay.
