A Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos, has admitted into evidence extra-judicial statements made by former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele, to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in his ongoing alleged $4.5 billion fraud trial.
The ruling followed a trial-within-a-trial during which Emefiele challenged the admissibility of the statements, alleging they were obtained under duress while he was in custody.
However, the court held that the prosecution had established that the statements were made voluntarily and admitted them as evidence.
Emefiele is standing trial on a 19-count charge bordering on alleged gratification, corrupt demands, and abuse of office during his tenure as CBN Governor. His co-defendant, Henry Omoile, is also facing charges in connection with the case.
Both men have pleaded not guilty.Following the ruling, the court adjourned the case for the continuation of trial as the EFCC proceeds with the prosecution of its case.
