Former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele, has denied ownership of the forfeited $4.7 million, N830 million, and several properties recently seized by the Federal Government.
The Federal High Court in Lagos, under Justice Yellim Bogoro, had ordered the final forfeiture of the assets following an application by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Emefiele’s legal team, led by Olawale Fapohunda, issued a statement clarifying that while DeepBlue Energy Limited, established in 2009, is owned by a relative of Emefiele, it is not his property. The statement emphasized that the forfeited assets do not belong to Emefiele or any member of his immediate family.
The legal team also pointed out that Justice Aneke of the same court had previously discharged an interim forfeiture order on the assets in question before the final order by Justice Bogoro. Emefiele’s team called on the public and all stakeholders to disregard any claims linking him to the forfeited properties.
“We urge all stakeholders and members of the public to take note of this clarification and cease associating these assets with Mr. Godwin Emefiele,” the statement added.
The statement further emphasized that Emefiele has always conducted himself with integrity and transparency throughout his career, and it is essential to rely on verified information rather than speculation. The legal team expressed concern that the misleading reports could damage Emefiele’s reputation and cause unnecessary harm to his family and associates.
In light of this development, Emefiele’s legal team has urged the public to exercise caution and verify information through official channels before making any conclusions. The team also expressed appreciation for the support and understanding of well-meaning Nigerians during this period.
