A Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja has dismissed the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) request to introduce new evidence in its case against former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele.
Justice Hamza Muazu ruled that allowing additional proof at this stage that has lasted over a year after charges were filed, that it would compromise the defendant’s right to a fair trial. The EFCC had sought to present testimonies from two new witnesses, but the court viewed this move as an afterthought rather than a legitimate legal process.
Despite rejecting the fresh evidence, the judge maintained that the trial must proceed rather than being dismissed entirely. The case, involving allegations of procurement fraud, will continue on June 3.