The trial of former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) governor, Godwin Emefiele, took a significant turn on Thursday as a forensic analyst confirmed the forgery of a document used to request the payment of $6.2 million for foreign election observers.
Before Justice Hamza Muazu of the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja, Emefiele faced 20-count amended charges bordering on corrupt advantages, conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, forgery, and obtaining by false pretenses.
During the resumed hearing, the forensic analyst, Bamaiyi Meriga, called by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), presented compelling evidence of forgery following a thorough analysis of the disputed documents. Meriga revealed discrepancies in the signatures and seal of execution, affirming that they did not match the authentic ones of former President Muhammadu Buhari and ex-Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha.
Two crucial documents, including a presidential directive on foreign observers, were admitted as evidence by Justice Muazu, marking a pivotal moment in the trial.
Under cross-examination by Emefiele’s counsel, Matthew Burkaa, Meriga clarified his employment status, stating that he was not a staff of the EFCC and his salary was not paid by the anti-graft agency but domiciled with the Nigeria Immigration Service.
Burkaa expressed dissatisfaction with the witness’s conduct, accusing him of evading questions and misleading the court.
However, the Prosecution counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo, dismissed these claims, emphasizing the credibility of the forensic analysis.
The trial was adjourned till March 11 for continuation.
