Kingsley Moghalu, a former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), has vehemently rejected recent media reports linking the former CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele, to a series of fraudulent activities, labeling them as nothing more than a media trial.
The accusations stem from a purported report by a CBN investigator, alleging that Emefiele engaged in fraudulent activities, including implementing the naira re-design policy without prior approval from President Buhari. Additionally, Emefiele was accused of unlawfully withdrawing $6.23 million from the CBN vault, ostensibly approved by the president, to pay foreign election observers.
NN News Media gathered that the allegations against former CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele are viewed as a potential plot to divert attention from perceived governance issues under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, hinting at a possible strategy to overshadow concerns about the current state of governance in Nigeria.
But Moghalu, however, took to social media to express his skepticism about the authenticity of the report. He pointed out that the document lacked an official signature, casting doubt on its legitimacy. Even if considered genuine, Moghalu argued that it was inappropriate for such a sensitive report to be leaked to the public before the President and his government had reviewed and responded to it.
The former Deputy Governor emphasized the potential harm caused by the media trial, asserting that the report’s mention of “chargeable offenses” and specific individuals recommended for prosecution, in addition to Emefiele, amounted to a prejudiced approach. Moghalu criticized the handling of the report, stating that this was not the proper way to address matters concerning the Central Bank of Nigeria.
He underscored the sensitivity of the central bank, highlighting its impact on Nigeria’s economy. While acknowledging the need for accountability, Moghalu urged a more cautious approach, considering the potential damage such sensationalism could inflict on the country’s image and economy. Ultimately, he reminded the public that allegations are merely allegations until proven in a court of law.
