Emefiele, who faces a six-count charge totaling ₦1.6 billion, appeared in court on Friday, vehemently denying the allegations. The charges, initially comprising 20 counts amounting to ₦6.5 billion, were revised to six counts, focusing on the contentious vehicle acquisitions. According to the amended charge sheet, Emefiele is accused of utilising his position to confer a corrupt advantage on Sa’adatu Ramallan Yaro, a Central Bank of Nigeria staff. ADVERTISEMENTCount one of the charge alleges that Emefiele, in 2018, used his influence to award a contract for the supply of 37 Toyota Hilux Vehicles at the cost of ₦854,700,000 to April1616 Investment Ltd, a company where Yaro serves as a director. The Federal Government contends that Emefiele also awarded a contract in 2020 for the supply of two Toyota Hilux Shell Specification Vehicles at the cost of ₦44,200,000 to Yaro.

Source: The Guardian November 17, 2023 11:43 UTC