Justice Hamza Muazu of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, has turned down an application by Godwin Emefiele, the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), seeking permission to travel to the United Kingdom for a follow-up medical checkup.
In his ruling, Justice Muazu stated that Emefiele did not provide sufficient evidence to demonstrate that the medical trip was both essential and unavoidable. Emefiele had claimed that he had received an invitation to travel to the UK for medical attention, but the judge pointed out that Emefiele failed to present a copy of this invitation in court.
Furthermore, Justice Muazu noted that Emefiele did not provide proof that his medical condition could not be treated within Nigeria. This lack of evidence played a significant role in the judge’s decision to reject the application.
The judge also emphasized that Emefiele is currently facing charges in three other courts. This ongoing legal situation likely influenced the court’s cautious approach in considering the application for travel. Justice Muazu’s ruling underscores the court’s position that Emefiele has not met the necessary requirements to justify his need for medical treatment abroad, particularly in light of the charges pending against him.
