By Charles Igwe
A Federal High Court in Abuja has provided a deadline of January 25 for former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele, to appear in court and clarify the circumstances surrounding the $53 million judgment debt resulting from the Pars Club refund.
Justice Inyang Ekwo, in a brief ruling, extended an opportunity for Emefiele to appear in person before the court, warning that if he fails to do so, an arrest warrant would be issued against him. The decision came following Emefiele’s plea, supported by CBN’s counsel, Audu Anuga, SAN, stating that their efforts to have Emefiele appear in person were unsuccessful due to his continued detention.
Anuga reported that an affidavit was filed on October 30 to explain why an arrest warrant should not be issued against Emefiele.
Justice Ekwo inquired if Mr. Joe Agi, SAN, the judgment creditor/applicant in the case, represented by I.A. Nnana, had been served with the affidavit. Nnana responded that they had been served on the previous day, near the close of the workday, and requested time to react.
The judge cautioned against the late filing of processes, noting that the matter had been scheduled for July 19. Anuga explained that efforts were made to ensure Emefiele’s release on the court’s order, but this had not been accomplished, leading to the filing of the affidavit.
While Anuga suggested the possibility of exploring a settlement option, Justice Ekwo insisted that Emefiele must appear on the next adjourned date.
The judge underscored the importance of compliance with court orders, even if parties fail to do so. He adjourned the matter until January 25, reiterating the necessity for Emefiele to appear in person.
It is worth noting that Emefiele’s absence from court proceedings was attributed to his continued detention by the Department of State Service (DSS) since June 10, despite his willingness to appear as directed. Jeremiah Utaan, a legal officer in the CBN’s Legal Department, explained in an affidavit on Emefiele’s behalf that his absence was due to circumstances beyond his control.
The judge had previously threatened to issue an arrest warrant against Emefiele for not appearing in court. The case revolves around Emefiele’s alleged refusal to obey a court order for the payment of a judgment debt to legal practitioner Joe Agi, SAN, with whom he was involved in a legal dispute.
The case has seen multiple adjournments and legal proceedings since its initiation.
