Court Nullifies DSS’s Arrest Of Godwin Emefiele

An Abuja Federal High Court has voided the arrest and detention of the suspended Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele.

Recall that the Department of State Services (DSS) had in June 2023 arrested Emefiele in relation to investigations surrounding some of his activities.

However, Emefiele through his counsel, Peter Abang, asked the court to set aside and nullify his arrest and detention for being illegal and a nullity in view of the subsisting judgment by another court delivered on 29th December, 2022.

Delivering judgement on the case, Justice Bello Kawu held that the arrest, detention and interrogation of Emefiele, is in violation of the subsisting judgment and orders of Justice M. A. Hassan.

Justice Kawu who issued an order setting aside any warrant of arrest obtained or procured by the respondents, especially the DSS for the arrest of Emefiele in connection with the allegations of terrorism financing, fraudulent practices, money laundering, threat to national security before any court, also granted an injunction restraining the respondents, particularly the DSS from arresting, detaining, or interfering with Mr. Emefiele’s personal liberty and freedom of movement.

The Judge also granted an order of injunction directing and mandating the respondents, particularly the DSS to forthwith release Emefiele from any arrest or detention.