Nigeria TV Info 

$4.5bn Fraud: Court Grants Emefiele’s Request for Forensic Expert

A Federal High Court sitting in Lagos has granted the request of former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele, to engage the services of a forensic expert in his ongoing trial over alleged $4.5 billion fraud.

At the resumed hearing, Emefiele’s legal team informed the court that independent forensic examination was necessary to review documents and transactions tendered by the prosecution. They argued that only a professional forensic expert could properly analyze the complex financial data presented by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Justice [Name] agreed with the defense, ruling that allowing a forensic expert would enhance fairness and transparency in the trial, given the technical nature of the allegations. The court therefore granted Emefiele leave to engage a certified expert, while directing that the expert’s findings must be shared with the prosecution before presentation in court.

Emefiele, who served as CBN governor from 2014 to 2023, faces multiple counts bordering on abuse of office, financial mismanagement, and fraud amounting to $4.5 billion. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

The case has attracted national and international attention, with analysts noting that the outcome could have major implications for Nigeria’s financial system and accountability in public office. The trial has been adjourned to a later date for continuation of proceedings.