BREAKING: Emefiele Pleads Not Guilty To Illegal Procession Of Firearm Charge

The suspended Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Godwin Emefiele on Tuesday pleaded not guilty to a two count charge of illegal possession of firearms and ammunition before the Federal High Court in Lagos.

He was arraigned before Justice Nicholas Oweibo by the Federal Government.

Emefiele was earlier brought to court at about 9:20am by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS). His lawyers arrived earlier.

Read Also: Lagos Court Jails Man, Wanted For Murder In Ogun, For Dealing In Hard Drug

The federal government had on July 13, 2023 filed a two-count charge of illegal processions of firearm and ammunition against the suspended CBN Governor.

The FG in the charge sheet, seen by our correspondent, accused Emefiele of possessing a single-barrel shotgun (JOJEFF MAGNUM 8371) without a licence.

The government maintained that the offences are contrary to section 4 of the Firearms Act Cap F28 Laws of the Federation 2004 and punishable under Section 27 (1b) of the same Act.

In the second count, the suspended CBN Governor was accused of having in his possession 123 rounds of live ammunition (Cartridges) without a licence, which is contrary to section 8 of the Firearms Act Cap F28 Laws of the Federation 2004 and punishable under Section 27 (1)(b)(il) of the same Act.

Emefiele has been in DSS’ custody since June 10 for “investigative reasons”, according to the agency.

Justice Oweibo is currently listening to arguments on his bail application.

Details later.