Forensic Analyst Confirms Forgery in Documents Used by Emefiele for $6.2m Observer Payment Request
In a dramatic continuation of the trial of the former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele, the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja heard from a forensic analyst on Thursday who confirmed the forgery of documents related to the payment of $6.2 million for foreign election observers.
The witness, Bamaiyi Meriga, called by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), disclosed to Justice Hamza Muazu that his forensic analysis uncovered clear evidence of forgery, with disparities in signatures and the seal of execution compared to the original documents.
The forensic analyst further asserted that the signatures did not match those of former President Muhammadu Buhari and ex-Secretary General of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha. Two pivotal documents, namely the “Presidential Directive on Foreign Observer Election” and the “Presidential Directive on Foreign Observer Election,” were presented as evidence and admitted by Justice Muazu.
During cross-examination by Emefiele’s counsel, Matthew Burkaa, Meriga clarified that he was not affiliated with the EFCC and was not receiving compensation from the anti-graft agency. He stated that his salary was domiciled with the Nigeria Immigration Service.
Expressing dissatisfaction with the witness’s conduct, Burkaa accused him of evading questions, while the Prosecution Counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo, contested the defense counsel’s discontent.
The trial has been adjourned until March 11 for further proceedings. Emefiele faces a 20-count amended charge, including allegations of corrupt advantages, conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, forgery, and obtaining by false pretense amounting to $6,230,000. The former CBN Governor stands accused of impersonating the SGF to unlawfully obtain the mentioned sum.
In a significant development in mid-February, ex-SGF Mustapha testified, disclaiming any knowledge of the transaction until he left office in May 2023. He emphasized that, having served for five years and seven months, the contentious document did not originate from the office of then-President Buhari.
