The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has urged the Federal High Court in Lagos to dismiss an application by former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) governor, Godwin Emefiele, seeking to halt the forfeiture of properties and monies linked to him. On August 25, 2024, the court allowed the EFCC to temporarily seize $2.045 million, seven prime properties, and shares associated with Emefiele.

During proceedings on Friday, Emefiele’s lawyer, Olalekan Ojo (SAN), requested that Justice Deinde Dipeolu stay the case until an appeal is determined. Ojo argued that continuing the case without resolving the appeal could lead to judicial complications.

However, EFCC counsel Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN) opposed the stay, claiming Emefiele had not filed a proper appeal and no court decision warranted halting the case. Oyedepo urged the court to proceed, stating that no exceptional circumstances justified a stay of proceedings.

Justice Dipeolu adjourned the ruling on the matter to October 11, 2024.