Obazee, Okpoziakpo Summoned: EFCC Intensifies Case Against Emefiele in $6.23m Fraud

The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, brings a new dimension to the ongoing $6.23 million fraud trial of Godwin Emefiele, former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). Justice Hamza Muazu now compels Jim Obazee, former Executive Officer of the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRC), and Police Commissioner Eloho Okpoziakpo to appear as crucial prosecution witnesses. Their testimony is set to deepen the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission's (EFCC) case against the embattled former CBN chief.

This strategic move signals the EFCC's resolve to solidify its allegations of criminal breach of trust, forgery, and abuse of office against Emefiele. The amended 20-count charge, which includes conspiracy to obtain by false pretence, centres on the alleged fraudulent diversion of $6.23 million. The prosecution maintains that Obazee and Okpoziakpo hold vital information, having been key figures in the initial investigations that led to these charges.

Key Witnesses to Testify on Naira Redesign

A subpoena, dated April 27, 2026, explicitly directs both Obazee and Okpoziakpo to present themselves before Justice Muazu on April 28, 2026, starting at 9 AM. The court order mandates their appearance “from day to day until the above case is tried,” specifically to “tender newspaper publication relating to Naira redesign.” This focus on the Naira redesign initiative points to a critical angle in the EFCC's prosecution strategy.

Court documents reveal that these high-ranking witnesses are scheduled to enter the witness box by 11 AM on the appointed day. Their presence underscores the gravity of the charges and the detailed nature of the evidence the prosecution intends to present. The EFCC has consistently argued that their insights are indispensable for establishing Emefiele's alleged culpability.

Justice Muazu’s subpoena clearly states that both men investigated Emefiele regarding the very offences for which he now stands trial. Their role extends beyond mere observation; they are expected to provide direct explanations and context surrounding the newspaper publications concerning the Naira redesign. This direct link between investigation and testimony strengthens the prosecution's hand.

Ruzzen understands this development injects renewed momentum into a high-profile case already fraught with political implications. The testimony of Obazee and Okpoziakpo promises to unearth further details, shaping perceptions and potentially influencing the trajectory of Emefiele’s defence as Nigeria watches keenly.