EFCC Witness Tells Court He Did Not Personally Interview Ex-CBN Governor Emefiele

Cross-examination reveals investigative gaps in $6.23m election observer fund probe in Abuja

📚 Get "Spend Less, Save More" — Click here

By A1 News International
Abuja, Nigeria — March 16, 2026

An EFCC investigator told the FCT High Court in Maitama on Monday that he did not personally interview former Central Bank Governor Godwin Emefiele during investigations into alleged procurement fraud. The disclosure raises questions over procedural thoroughness in the high-profile $6.23 million election observer fund case.

What Happened
David Jaiyeoba, the 12th prosecution witness (PW12), testified under cross-examination by defence counsel Matthew Burkaa, SAN, that he relied on documentary evidence and statements from team investigators rather than personal interviews with Emefiele. Jaiyeoba also confirmed that he never visited the former governor’s residence or renovation sites tied to the allegations.

The witness stated that the investigative team was split between Lagos and Abuja, with Abuja officials handling interactions with key witnesses. He further acknowledged limited knowledge of the Central Bank’s procurement process and said he could not confirm whether Emefiele participated in the Major Contract Tender Committee.

Official Response
Defence counsel challenged the witness on the timeline and substance of the EFCC investigation, noting that extrajudicial statements were obtained months after charges were filed in August 2023. The witness admitted not recalling exact dates but confirmed reliance on team interviews and documents.

📚 Get "Spend Less, Save More" — Click here

Burkaa also confronted Jaiyeoba with a Court of Appeal ruling that overturned a prior forfeiture order on properties linked to Emefiele. The witness acknowledged the appellate judgment and agreed the EFCC was bound by it. Justice Hamza Muazu adjourned proceedings until Tuesday for continuation of the trial.

Background
Emefiele faces a 20-count amended charge (FCT/HC/CR/577/2023) including criminal breach of trust, forgery, abuse of office, conspiracy, and obtaining money by false pretence. EFCC alleges he unlawfully obtained $6.23 million to fund international election observers for the 2023 general elections and conferred undue benefits on April 1616 Nigeria Ltd and Architekon Nigeria Ltd. The former apex bank chief has pleaded not guilty.

Why It Matters
The trial highlights procedural and evidentiary questions in high-profile corruption cases, particularly the reliance on team-based investigations rather than direct interviews with key suspects. The handling of documentary evidence and witness testimony will influence public confidence in accountability mechanisms for public officials.

For Nigerians, the proceedings underscore the challenges of ensuring thorough, transparent investigations in financial misconduct cases involving top officials. The court’s scrutiny of investigative gaps may set a precedent for future EFCC probes and reinforce the importance of procedural rigor in upholding public trust.