Inside Nigeria
How Emefiele’s wife received millions in fraudulent transfers – Witness narrates
A witness at the Ikeja Special Offences Court has disclosed how the former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Godwin Emefiele transferred millions of naira to his wife, Margaret’s accounts.
The witness, an assistant bank manager, Ifeoma Ogbonnaya, testified that millions were moved in tranches to various companies’ accounts.
Emefiele faces trial for abuse of office and alleged $4.5 billion and N2.8 billion fraud. He is facing trial in three courts in Lagos and Abuja, alongside co-defendant Henry Omoile.
Prosecutor Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN) led Ogbonnaya in evidence. The witness managed accounts that received huge funds from CBN. She confirmed that Margaret Emefiele owned the accounts and approved transactions.
Ogbonnaya listed companies involved, including Amswinh Resources and Solution, Limelight Dimensional Service Limited, Omec Support Service Limited, and Mango Farm.
The witness said: “The accounts are for Mrs Margaret Emefiele, the ex-CBN governor’s wife.
“The companies sent transfer instructions to my email and Margaret Emefiele is the beneficiary and owner of the money.”
She said Emefiele’s wife sent transfer instructions via email, phone calls, and WhatsApp.
The court admitted transaction details as evidence. The trial is expected to continue today.
In a separate case, the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) adjourned ruling on Emefiele’s application to travel abroad for medical treatment. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) opposed the application, fearing Emefiele might flee if his International Passport is released.