Emefele
Picnews
A witness in the trial of former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Godwin Emefiele testified that $6.23 million was withdrawn from the CBN using forged documents. Bashirudeen Maishanu, a Deputy Director with CBN’s Banking Supervision Department, stated that he was inadvertently involved in the withdrawal and has taken responsibility for his actions .
Maishanu claimed he was approached by Ahmed, who said Emefiele’s PA, Eric Ocheme, wanted to discuss a transaction being processed at the CBN. Ahmed presented documents purportedly approved by former President Muhammadu Buhari and former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, which were later found to be forged.
The witness said he didn’t know the withdrawal was fraudulent until confronted with documents by presidential investigator Obaze. He testified that Ahmed and his friend withdrew $6.23 million from the CBN’s Garki branch on February 8, 2023, and gave him, his friend, and another person $2.5 million to share.
Maishanu described the amount as “outrageous” and claimed he didn’t negotiate for payment. He also stated that he had refunded a large portion of his share of the $2.5 million to the federal government.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) alleges Emefiele obtained $6.23 million by false pretenses, claiming it was for international election observers. Emefiele faces a 20-count charge, including procurement fraud and forgery.
Forensic analysis revealed that the signatures of former President Buhari and ex-Secretary Mustapha were forged. Mustapha testified that he never received or signed any document related to the transaction.
Emefiele’s counsel, Matthew Burkaa, cross-examined Maishanu, suggesting he was not aware of the forgery. However, Maishanu maintained that he became suspicious due to the large amount involved.The trial is ongoing, with the next hearing scheduled for March 11.
