By Julius Uche | Fact Frontier.
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The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court sitting in Maitama has imposed a fine of ₦500,000 on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for causing an unnecessary delay in the ongoing trial of former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele.
Justice Hamza Muazu issued the ruling after the prosecution failed to produce its witness in court, marking the latest setback in a case that has seen multiple adjournments. The judge described the repeated delays as an abuse of court process and warned that further procrastination would not be tolerated.
"The court will not allow its time to be wasted by a prosecution that is ill-prepared. The EFCC is hereby fined ₦500,000 for this unwarranted delay," Justice Muazu ruled.
The prosecution had cited the absence of its key witness, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Elohor Edwin Okpoziakeo, attributing it to administrative bottlenecks and a personal legal engagement. However, the defence counsel, Matthew Burkaa (SAN), opposed the adjournment, arguing that the prosecution had already been granted approximately eight adjournments, exceeding the limits stipulated under the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015.
Burkaa urged the court to dismiss the case, but Justice Muazu opted to grant a "final adjournment" until April 27 and 28, 2026, while imposing the fine to ensure compliance.
Emefiele is facing a 20-count charge bordering on alleged procurement fraud and conferment of unfair advantage during his tenure as CBN governor. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
The case has drawn significant public attention, with legal experts noting that the court's decision reinforces the judiciary's commitment to ensuring timely justice. As of March 2026, the trial remains ongoing, with all parties directed to adhere strictly to the new schedule.
