Emefiele Asks Court To Grant Him Bail

The suspended Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele has requested that the Federal High Court sitting in Lagos admit him to bail on self recognizance until the hearing and determination of the charge filed against him by the Federal Government.

The bail application which was filed by his lead counsel, Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Joseph Daudu was brought pursuant to the relevant provisions of the constitution, the Administration of Criminal Justice Act of 2015 and the inherent powers of the court.

It was not yet sure when Mr Emefiele would be arraigned on the two counts of illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition but there are indications that it would be sometime during the annual vacation of the court which begins on Monday, July 24, 2023.

The suspended CBN governor’s case has been assigned to Justice Nicholas Oweibo, who is one of two vacation judges for the court. The other is Justice Akintayo Aluko.

Mr Emefiele’s application for bail was premised on nine grounds.

First, he contended that the offences for which he was charged were bailable. He also said he has never been convicted of any offence and he is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

The suspended CBN governor also stated that granting him bail would afford him adequate time and facilities to prepare his defence to the charge.

Referring to his reputation and past credible record as well as his status of being a former CBN governor, the defendant said he is not a flight risk and would not jump bail if it is granted.

He also noted that since investigations have ended, there is no likelihood of interference on his part. While promising to attend trial punctually, the defendant also indicated his willingness to provide responsible sureties as may be required by the Court as a condition for the grant of bail.