A Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja has scheduled multiple hearing dates to wrap up the trial of former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele, over allegations linked to the naira redesign policy.
Justice Maryann Anenih fixed ten additional dates after both the prosecution and defence teams agreed on a timetable to conclude the case. The scheduled dates are February 3 and 10; April 1 and 2; May 11, 12, 13, and 14; and June 9 and 10. The court stated that the long-running trial, which began in 2024, is expected to be completed by June.
The judge urged both parties to strictly follow the agreed timeline, assuring them that the court would make the necessary arrangements to ensure smooth proceedings.
During the resumed hearing, an operative of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Emere Chinedu, testified that the naira redesign policy received approval from the Presidency under former President Muhammadu Buhari. He explained that the approval was formally communicated to the EFCC following its inquiry.
However, Chinedu noted that the approval came with a condition that the redesigned currency notes must be printed locally, countering claims that the notes were produced outside Nigeria during Emefiele’s tenure.
The witness also revealed that Emefiele made six extra-judicial statements during appearances before the investigative panel between October 26 and November 2, 2023. Under cross-examination, Chinedu declined to comment on allegations that a former EFCC chairman suggested the redesign policy, stating that the commission does not have the authority to initiate currency redesign decisions.
He further confirmed that video evidence showing hardship experienced by Nigerians during the policy rollout was sourced online and submitted by the EFCC, although no television station personnel were interviewed to verify the footage.
Emefiele, who has pleaded not guilty, is being tried under charge number FCT/HC/CR/264/2024. The court adjourned proceedings to February 3 for the continuation of cross-examination.
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