The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has opposed the application of Godwin Emefiele, former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for the release of his passport to enable him to travel abroad for medical treatment.
This was confirmed by Dele Oyewale, head of media and publicity for the EFCC, Monday, in Abuja.
Labi-Lawal, Emefiele’s defence counsel, had filed an affidavit requesting the release of his client’s passport to facilitate a trip to the United Kingdom for medical care.
However, the EFCC promptly filed a counter-affidavit, contesting the request.
Muhammad Abbas Omeiza, prosecution counsel, argued in court that no medical report substantiated Emefiele’s alleged ailment, and even if there was such an ailment, there was no evidence suggesting it could not be treated in Nigeria.
Omeiza also emphasised that Emefiele’s passport was deposited with the court as a bail condition, and releasing it would effectively alter these conditions.
Furthermore, Omeiza described Emefiele as a flight risk, highlighting that he has co-conspirators abroad.
He cited two aides, Anita and Tony, currently in the UK, suggesting that Emefiele might be tempted to flee as he faces trials in three different courts.
In response, the defence dismissed the prosecution’s arguments as speculative.
They argued that the EFCC could issue an international red alert to ensure Emefiele’s arrest if he failed to return from his medical trip.
The matter was, however, adjourned for ruling on the application until July 16, 2024.
