An order restraining the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from trying to stop CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele from competing in the 2023 Presidential elections.
A high court sitting in Kwale, Delta State has shackled both bodies, stopping them from stopping the bank’s governor. In an application filed on May 5, Emefiele asked the court for an order which allows him stay in office as CBN Governor while also contesting in the 2023 presidential election.
The judgement delivered by Presiding Justice, DC Maidoh read in part;
“The court upon reading through the motion papers and hearing C.N. Ofiah Esq. for the claimants/applicants ordered as follows: I have read the processes in this suit, the applicant has complied with order 39 of our rules.”
“Applicants also deposed to an affidavit of urgency. From the processes before this court, I find that the said application at this stage has merit pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice.”
“In the circumstances, in line with order 39 rule 3 of our rules, this motion is hereby granted. The motion on notice is accordingly adjourned to 25/5/2022 for hearing.”
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Popular human rights lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN) earlier this month clarified that Emefiele is not qualified to run for President. In a statement, he said,
“while Mr. Emefiele is awaiting divine intervention it is pertinent to point out that by virtue of the combined effect of section 9 of the CBN Act and Section 18 of the Banks and Financial institutions Act 2020 it is the Board of the CBN that is competent to permit him to engage in politics or any other vocation.”
“So far, the Board of the CBN has not authorised him to participate in the primary election of the ruling party. To that extent, he is disqualified from seeking any elective position in the primary election of any political party or in the general election.”
