Emefiele Trial: Witness Denies Direct Dealings with Ex-CBN Chief

In the ongoing trial of Godwin Emefiele, the former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, a witness named Richard Agulu testified that he had no direct dealings with Emefiele concerning the alleged unlawful acquisition of 753 duplexes in Abuja. During cross-examination by Emefiele's counsel, Matthew Burkaa, Agulu confirmed that while he previously testified about disbursing N1.6 billion linked to Emefiele, he did not receive any funds directly from him.

Agulu stated that the funds were given to him by Eric Ochem, who instructed him to carry out transactions. He could not recall whether he had communicated directly with Emefiele or if he had seen Emefiele's phone number.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is prosecuting Emefiele on eight counts related to the alleged unlawful acquisition of the properties, which are said to involve billions of naira concealed in proxy accounts. Emefiele has pleaded not guilty to the charges.