A Federal High Court in Lagos has ordered the final forfeiture of $1.4 million linked to former Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, Godwin Emefiele.
Justice Olayinka Faji, in a ruling on Thursday, agreed with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission that the money was obtained through unlawful means and must be handed over to the Federal Government.
The EFCC’s counsel, Bilkisu Bahari-Bala, told the court that $1,426,175.14 was found in the account of Donatone Limited at Titan Trust Bank (Account No. 2000000500). She explained that investigations showed the money was connected to fraudulent activities.
According to an affidavit by EFCC investigator David Jayeoba, the funds were discovered through intelligence reports. The investigation uncovered a scheme involving Emefiele and his associates, including Donatone Limited directors, Uzeobo Anthony and Adebanjo Olurotimi.
Jayeoba stated, “Investigation revealed that Uzeobo Anthony and Adebanjo Olurotimi were some of the brains behind the fraudulent concealment of funds suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activities of the former CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele.”
He added, “Both men were procured by Emefiele to conceal, retain, and disguise funds, using Donatone Ltd to collect bribes and gratification on his behalf for Forex approvals.”
The court had earlier granted an interim forfeiture order on May 30, 2024, before confirming the final forfeiture in Thursday’s ruling.
The EFCC has continued its investigation into Emefiele’s financial dealings, with this latest ruling adding to the legal challenges faced by the former CBN boss.
