Proceedings in the trial of former Central Bank of Nigeria Governor Godwin Emefiele face potential delay over uncertainty surrounding the availability of key witness Jim Obazee. Obazee, a special investigator appointed by President Bola Tinubu, has not been formally called to testify in the case concerning a $6.23 million discrepancy at the CBN's Abuja branch. The prosecution may inform the Federal Capital Territory High Court that Obazee is unavailable, prompting another adjournment request. Justice Hamza Muazu, presiding over the case, had directed the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to present its principal witness at the next hearing following the March 17 session. The judge previously expressed concern over repeated delays, noting that several adjournments had already exceeded statutory guidelines.
A judicial source said the EFCC considered calling a police officer as a witness but dropped the plan, possibly due to concerns over the credibility of such testimony in a high-profile matter. Despite this, EFCC officials have been in contact with Obazee, who is reportedly willing to testify if approached through proper channels. No formal summons has been issued to him. The court has not yet received official communication on the witness status.
The prosecution claims Jim Obazee is unavailable, yet confirms he is willing to testify if formally approached—raising questions about why the process has stalled. The EFCC's failure to secure its principal witness weeks after a court order undermines confidence in the case's momentum. Nigerians named in the $6.23 million CBN discrepancy case remain in legal limbo as procedural delays persist. When a court directive cannot compel timely action, the integrity of the trial comes under quiet strain.
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