Emefiele Denies Misconduct, Challenges Accusations
By Patience Ikpeme
Former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Godwin Emefiele has issued a rebuttal to recent media reports alleging financial misconduct during his tenure.
In a press release, Emefiele directly addressed three key accusations: the lack of presidential approval for the Naira redesign, the unauthorized withdrawal of $6.23 million from CBN vaults, and the existence of 593 foreign bank accounts purportedly linked to him.
On the issue of the Naira redesign, Emefiele vehemently contested claims that it lacked proper authorization. He affirmed the existence of presidential approval, stating that it was “handed over to the same Jim Obazee during the process of his investigation in the presence of senior CBN officials and his own investigative team.” Moreover, he referenced former President Muhammadu Buhari’s public pronouncements confirming his authorization for the project.
Regarding the alleged $6.23 million withdrawal, Emefiele denied any knowledge of or involvement in the purported incident. He challenged Mr. Obazee, the author of the report containing the accusation, to “publish the said documents and also the statements that I made to them” during their investigative interview. He categorically denied ever seeing the document outlining the supposed presidential directive.
Finally, in addressing the controversial allegation of 593 foreign bank accounts, Emefiele unequivocally emphasized his lack of involvement. He stated, “I am not involved in the opening of these accounts and I do not have knowledge of their openings.” However, he acknowledged that relevant CBN departments possess the authority to undertake such activities within their legal mandate. Emefiele expressed support for calls for a thorough and transparent investigation into all claims of impropriety.
Furthermore, Emefiele announced the initiation of legal proceedings to clear his name against the “defamatory statements” contained in the report and subsequent publications. This response signals a determined effort to counter the accusations and defend his reputation.
This press release presents a significant development in the ongoing saga surrounding Emefiele’s tenure at the CBN. His direct rebuttal of the allegations raises substantial questions and potentially sets the stage for further legal proceedings and investigations.
While the truth remains to be established, Emefiele’s statement adds a critical layer to the evolving narrative and paves the way for continued public scrutiny and debate.
