Forgery Allegation: Ex-SGF Boss Mustapha Denies Approval for $6.2b Withdrawal from CBN

In a startling development, Boss Mustapha, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), has vehemently denied granting approval for the disbursement of $6,230,000 to international election observers. Mustapha asserted that neither he nor former President Muhammadu Buhari authorized such a transaction. This revelation surfaced during Mustapha’s testimony as the second prosecution witness in the trial of Godwin Emefiele, former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

Emefiele is currently facing a 20-count amended criminal charge brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The charges include allegations of criminal breach of trust, forgery, conspiracy to commit forgery, procurement fraud, and conspiracy to commit a felony. The EFCC alleges that Emefiele impersonated the SGF to illegally obtain $6.2 million.

One of the key accusations leveled against Emefiele is the forgery of a document titled “RE: PRESIDENTIAL DIRECTIVE ON FOREIGN ELECTION OBSERVER MISSIONS,” allegedly dated January 26, 2023. This document forms a crucial part of the EFCC’s case against him.

Mustapha’s denial raises serious questions about the authenticity of the document and the circumstances surrounding the withdrawal of such a significant amount of money from the CBN. The trial is ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge as the case progresses.

This development underscores the critical importance of upholding transparency and accountability in financial transactions, particularly when dealing with public funds. The outcome of the trial will have significant implications for the integrity of the financial system and the fight against corruption in Nigeria. The allegations and subsequent trial highlight the need for robust oversight and adherence to due process in all financial transactions, especially those involving public funds.