Emefiele trial: Court summons police chief, ex-FRC boss as witnesses

In a significant development in the ongoing trial of former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Godwin Emefiele, the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja has issued subpoenas for key figures to testify. The court, presided over by Justice Hamza Mu’azu, has summoned Jim Obazee, the former Executive Secretary of the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria, and Commissioner of Police Eloho Okpoziakpo.

These individuals are crucial to the prosecution's case, as they were involved in the investigation that culminated in the amended 20-count charge against Emefiele. The charges encompass serious allegations such as criminal breach of trust, forgery, abuse of office, and conspiracy to defraud the government of $6.23 million. The subpoena, dated April 27, 2026, directs Obazee and Okpoziakpo to appear in court on April 28, 2026, to provide evidence relevant to these charges.

Notably, the court has specifically requested that the witnesses tender newspaper publications related to the naira redesign policy. This indicates that the controversial policy, implemented during Emefiele's tenure, will be a central focus of the proceedings. The prosecution, led by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), aims to establish Emefiele's culpability in the alleged financial malfeasance.

The summoning of these witnesses underscores the gravity of the case and the meticulous approach being taken by the judiciary to ensure a thorough examination of the evidence. The trial is expected to proceed with their testimonies, shedding further light on the circumstances surrounding the charges against the former CBN governor and the broader implications of the naira redesign policy.

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