Jim Obazee, the investigator tasked by President Bola Tinubu, has formally requested the prosecution of former President Muhammadu Buhari—posthumously—and former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha. Testifying as the 15th witness in the trial of former CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele, Obazee argued that the legal proceedings should extend to these high-profile figures regarding the alleged theft of $6.23 million.
Emefiele is currently facing charges from the EFCC involving breach of trust, forgery, and conspiracy. Prosecutors allege that the former governor illegally obtained funds intended for international election observers during the 2023 polls. Emefiele has pleaded not guilty to all charges. During his testimony at the Abuja High Court, Obazee asserted that holding only Emefiele accountable is insufficient given the involvement of multiple individuals.
The investigator specifically pointed to the roles of the CBN branch manager and staff members, noting that the release of the funds violated standard financial protocols. Obazee further claimed that Jibril Abubakar and bank staffer Bashirudeen Maishanu, who allegedly returned a portion of the funds, should also be brought to justice. He contended that prosecuting all implicated parties would act as a significant deterrent for financial misconduct within the country.
While Obazee admitted under cross-examination that he did not recover any money directly from Emefiele, he maintained that the former governor should have been aware of the breach if proper oversight mechanisms were functioning. Following the conclusion of the prosecution’s evidence, the defense indicated plans to file a no-case submission. The presiding judge, Justice Hamza Muazu, has adjourned the case until October 20.
