A High Court in the Federal Capital Territory has fined the (EFCC) N500,000 for repeatedly seeking adjournments in the ongoing trial of former Central Bank governor, .
Justice of the FCT High Court, sitting in Maitama, Abuja, imposed the fine on Tuesday after the anti-graft agency requested another adjournment due to the absence of its witness.
The judge, however, granted what he described as a final adjournment to allow the prosecution present its witness in court.
Emefiele faces multiple charges
Emefiele is being prosecuted on a 20-count charge bordering on alleged procurement fraud, criminal breach of trust, forgery, abuse of office, and obtaining money under false pretence.
He is accused of allegedly securing over $6.2 million meant for international election observers during the 2023 general elections, among other offences.
Defence opposes further adjournment
Counsel to the former CBN governor strongly opposed the application, arguing that the law limits the number of adjournments allowed in criminal trials.
The defence maintained that the prosecution had already exceeded the permitted number of adjournments and failed to adequately prepare its witness over a prolonged period.
Court cites interest of justice
In his ruling, Justice Muazu acknowledged the legal limits on adjournments but stated that the court retains discretion to grant one if it serves the interest of justice.
However, he sanctioned the EFCC for delaying proceedings despite earlier approval for accelerated hearing.
Next hearing date fixed
The court subsequently adjourned the case to April 27 and 28 for continuation of trial proceedings.
EFCC news, Godwin Emefiele trial, court fine Nigeria, procurement fraud case, FCT High Court, anti-corruption Nigeria, legal news Nigeria
