In a significant development for the defense, a prosecution witness in the trial of former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Godwin Emefiele has told the court that his name does not appear on the bank accounts central to the property fraud charges.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is prosecuting Emefiele for allegedly unlawfully holding billions of naira in proxy accounts at Zenith Bank. The charges are linked to funds in the accounts of three companies: MG Properties Limited, Ifedigo Integrated Services, and Kelvito Integrated Services.
During cross-examination at the Abuja High Court, the witness, Mshelia Arhyel—a Zenith Bank compliance officer—stated under oath that he does not know the owner of the accounts in question.
When asked by Emefiele’s counsel, Matthew Burkaa, SAN, if the former CBN governor’s name was on the account opening documents, the witness replied, “No.”
The witness also revealed that he was not called by the EFCC to make a statement and was unaware he would be testifying until he signed a certificate of compliance.
Earlier, Emefiele’s legal team challenged the court’s jurisdiction to hear the case, arguing their client is not linked to the charges. The prosecution opposed this application, insisting he is connected.
Justice Yusuf Halilu has adjourned the trial until November 26 for continuation.
