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EFCC opposes Godwin Emefiele’s request for passport release, citing flight risk and lack of medical proof. Court adjourns ruling to July 16.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has opposed the request of former Central Bank of Nigeria governor Godwin Emefiele to travel abroad for medical treatment.

According to EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale, Emefiele's defense counsel, Labi Lawal, filed an affidavit seeking the release of his passport for a medical trip to the United Kingdom. However, EFCC argued against this in court, stating that there was no medical report confirming Emefiele's ailment that couldn't be treated locally. Prosecution counsel Muhammad Abbas Omeiza emphasized that releasing Emefiele's passport could jeopardize his trial due to concerns about flight risk and international connections.

The defense countered, dismissing these concerns as speculative and suggesting an international red alert if Emefiele failed to return. Justice Mu’azu adjourned the ruling on the passport release until July 16, 2024, amidst ongoing legal arguments and scrutiny over Emefiele's bail conditions and trial proceedings.