In a dramatic turn of events, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) faced censure on Monday as it failed to present former Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, Godwin Emefiele, in court, contrary to a directive from the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja.
The court had issued an order on Thursday instructing the EFCC to either unconditionally release Emefiele or bring him before the court on Monday for a hearing on a motion regarding his bail. However, the ex-CBN governor was notably absent during the court proceedings on the specified day.
Emefiele’s legal representative, Mathew Burkaa, condemned the EFCC’s alleged non-compliance with the court order, emphasizing the prolonged duration of his client’s custody. “Today marks the 149th day of the applicant being in custody,” Burkaa stated, highlighting what he deemed a disregard for the court’s directives.
Responding to the accusations, the EFCC’s counsel, Mr. Farouk Abdullahi, contended that the failure to adhere to the court order was not intentional. Abdullahi argued that certain exhibits, including Exhibit E, referenced by the applicant, were not attached to the order, creating a discrepancy.
Presiding over the matter, Justice Olusegun Adeniyi adjourned the proceedings to November 8, reiterating the court’s directive for the EFCC to either release Emefiele without conditions or produce him in court on the next adjourned date for potential bail consideration.
The unfolding controversy raises renewed concerns about due process, institutional compliance, and the adherence to legal directives within the context of high-profile cases involving prominent figures.
