President Bola Tinubu has officially ended the investigation into the alleged wrongdoings of the former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
This was made known in a statement on Friday by presidential spokesman Ajuri Ngelale.
The president thanked Mr. Jim Obazee for his work as the Special Investigator of the CBN and related entities.
According to the statement, the investigation ended on March 31, 2024, and appropriate law enforcement agencies are taking further action.
Mr. Obazee was praised for his dedication and professionalism during this national task.
Ngelale said, “Subsequent to the conclusion of the assignment and the submission of a final comprehensive report, and with the winding up of all apparatuses used during the scope of the task, which terminated on March 31, 2024, the investigation is formally closed, with all appropriate law enforcement and regulatory agencies already conducting follow-up action.
“The President thanks Mr. Obazee for answering the call of duty while wishing him success in his future endeavours.”
The inquiry, initiated by President Tinubu in July, aimed to probe the activities of the CBN under Emefiele.
The investigation unearthed various financial irregularities, leading to charges against the former CBN governor.
These included unauthorised fund transfers, fraudulent withdrawals, and substantial deposits in offshore accounts.
Moreover, the report revealed manipulation of currency exchange rates, irregularities in the e-Naira project, and unauthorised printing of currency.
Recall that Emefiele faced public backlash in 2022 when rumours circulated about his presidential ambitions.
This prompted legal action by citizens and civil society organisations.
He was ultimately suspended by President Tinubu in June 2023, upon stepping into office.
Emefiele was subsequently arrested and charged in July 2023 and later released on bail after being re-arrested by the Department of State Services.
