In a recent court session at the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) presented Agboro Omowera as a witness, shedding light on contracts awarded by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to companies linked to the former CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele’s wife and brother-in-law.
Omowera disclosed that documents showed 10 CBN officials, including Emefiele, were involved in awarding multi-million contracts to April 1616 and Architekon Nigeria Limited.
The EFCC accused Emefiele of allegedly using his position to favoritism his wife, Margaret, and brother-in-law by approving a payment of N97.9 million to Architekon Nigeria Ltd for office furniture supplies to the CBN.
During cross-examination by the defense counsel, Mathew Burkaa (SAN), Omowera emphasized that while 10 individuals were involved in the contract award process, the ultimate responsibility rested with Emefiele as the head of the CBN.
When asked if Emefiele personally benefited from the contracts, Omowera clarified that their investigation focused on Emefiele’s relatives and associates, not on the governor himself.
Omowera further revealed that Emefiele’s wife, listed as a director of Archtekon Nigeria Limited, used her maiden name for registration. Additionally, Sa`adatu Yaro, a CBN staff, was identified as a director of April 1616 Investment Ltd, which secured multiple contracts for Toyota vehicles worth millions.
The witness expressed concern over how a company with no prior track record could secure numerous contracts, raising suspicions of foul play. He highlighted discrepancies, such as the company not being accredited by Toyota, despite winning bids against accredited competitors.
The trial judge adjourned the proceedings until April 25 for further examination.
It’s worth noting that on February 10, the EFCC declared Emefiele’s wife and three others wanted for their alleged involvement in embezzling funds belonging to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
