The trial of former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele, unfolded further on Thursday before Justice Hamza Muazu of the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja.
A pivotal moment arose when forensic analyst Bamaiyi Meriga, called by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), provided compelling evidence confirming the forgery of documents used to request a payment of 6.2 million dollars for foreign election observers.
Meriga detailed the results of the forensic analysis, revealing clear indications of signature forgery and disparities in the execution seal compared to the original.
Notably, he asserted that the signatures did not match those of former President Muhammadu Buhari and ex-Secretary General of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha.
The trial judge, Justice Muazu, admitted the contested documents—Presidential Directive on Foreign Observer Election—into evidence.
During cross-examination, Emefiele’s counsel, Matthew Burkaa, expressed dissatisfaction with Meriga’s conduct, alleging evasion of questions.
Meriga clarified that he was not an EFCC staff but received his salary through the Nigeria Immigration Service.
The tension escalated as the Prosecution Counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo, clashed with the defense counsel over their differing viewpoints.
The trial is adjourned until March 11 for further proceedings.