A Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja has scheduled ten fresh hearing dates, aiming to conclude the trial of former Central Bank Governor Godwin Emefiele by June.
Justice Maryann Anenih set the dates on Wednesday following an agreement between the prosecution and defence counsels. The trial, which commenced in 2024, will now continue on February 3 and 10; April 1 and 2; May 11, 12, 13, and 14; and June 9 and 10.
The judge urged both sides to adhere strictly to the schedule, assuring that the court would make adequate arrangements to accommodate the proceedings.
At the resumed hearing, an Economic and Financial Crimes Commission witness, Emere Chinedu, who headed the inter-agency probe panel, testified that the Presidency under former President Muhammadu Buhari approved the naira redesign.
Chinedu stated, “The state House gave approval for the naira redesign, but with a proviso that it must be done locally.” This countered allegations that the notes were printed abroad under Emefiele’s watch.
The witness also disclosed that Emefiele made six extra-judicial statements before the panel in October and November 2023.
During cross-examination, Chinedu declined to comment on claims that a former EFCC Chairman, Abdulrasheed Bawa, initially suggested the redesign to President Buhari. He noted that “the EFCC has no authority to propose changes to the colour of the naira,” adding that any role played by the commission could only be advisory.
Chinedu confirmed that video clips showing hardship suffered by Nigerians during the naira redesign policy, tendered by the EFCC, were downloaded from the internet. He stated that no staff from the television stations that produced the clips were interviewed.
Emefiele, who is standing trial under charge FCT/HC/CR/264/2024, has pleaded not guilty to the allegations. The case was adjourned to February 3 for the continuation of the witness’s cross-examination.
