Court Voids DSS’ Detention of Emefiele, Orders His Immediate Release

Another High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on Friday, July 14, 2023, overturned the Department of State Services (DSS)’s arrest and detention of the suspended Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele.

The Court, presided over by Justice Bello Kawu, held that the arrest, detention and interrogation of Emefiele was in violation of a subsisting judgment and orders of Justice M. A. Hassan.

The embattled Emefiele through his Counsel, Peter Abang, had prayed the Court to set aside as well as nullify his arrest and detention, saying that it was illegal and a nullity in view of a subsisting judgment of another court which was delivered on December 29, 2022.

Accordingly, Justice Kawu made 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 and threat to national security before any court.

Justice Kawu 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 Court equally granted an order of injunction directing and mandating the Respondents, particularly the DSS, to forthwith release and set free Emefiele from any arrest and or detention whatsoever.