A High Court in the Federal Capital Territory scheduled 10 new hearing dates. Justice Maryann Anenih presided over the case. She fixed the dates to conclude the trial of Godwin Emefiele.
The former Central Bank of Nigeria Governor faced charges related to the naira redesign. Emefiele pleaded not guilty to the accusations. The trial carried the charge number FCT/HC/CR/264/2024. However the court set the dates after an agreement. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and Emefiele’s legal team reached a consensus.
However the court set the dates after an agreement. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and Emefiele’s legal team reached a consensus.
Background of the Charges
The EFCC brought the case against Emefiele in 2024. Prosecutors accused him of unlawful actions during the naira redesign. They claimed he violated approvals from the former administration.
Former President Muhammadu Buhari granted permission for the redesign. However the approval required local printing of the notes. Investigators alleged that Emefiele printed them abroad.
Additionally the probe involved an inter-agency panel. This group examined Emefiele’s role in the policy.
Witness Testimony
EFCC witness Emere Chinedu testified during the hearing. He led the investigation panel. Chinedu stated that Emefiele provided six extra-judicial statements.
These statements occurred between October 26 and November 2, 2023. Chinedu explained the approval process. “The State House gave approval for the naira redesign, but with a proviso that it must be done locally,” Chinedu said. Moreover he presented video clips. These showed hardships from the redesign. The clips came from the internet.
Cross-Examination Details
Defense lawyers cross-examined Chinedu. He declined to comment on certain claims. Emefiele alleged that former EFCC Chairman Abdulrasheed Bawa suggested the redesign to Buhari.
Chinedu asserted that the EFCC lacked authority for such proposals. He emphasized the local printing requirement. The witness confirmed that TV stations produced the videos. However investigators did not interview the station staff. The clips predated the panel’s formation.
Adjournment and Schedule
Justice Anenih adjourned the matter. She set the next hearing for February 3, 2026. This allowed continuation of the cross-examination.
The full schedule included additional dates. The court fixed February 10, April 1 and 2, May 11 to 14, and June 9 and 10. Justice Anenih stressed strict adherence. Meanwhile the trial aimed for completion by June. This move accelerated the proceedings amid public interest.
The case highlighted issues from the 2023 naira redesign. It caused widespread economic disruptions. Emefiele remained in custody during the trial.
Ongoing Implications
The EFCC pursued the charges diligently. Prosecutors sought to prove violations. Emefiele’s team defended his actions. Meanwhile the court ensured fair proceedings. Both sides prepared for the upcoming dates. The resolution promised clarity on the redesign policy.
