John Ayoh, a former Director of Information Technology at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), provided insight into the purported collection of $600,000 in contract gratification for the embattled former apex bank governor, Godwin Emefiele, during proceedings at an Ikeja Special Offences Court.
Ayoh, testifying under the guidance of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) counsel, Mr. Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), disclosed that he spent eight years at the apex bank. He recounted receiving a letter from the agency regarding two transactions he facilitated involving Emefiele.
As Head of Procurement and Support Services (PSS) Department, Ayoh detailed that the first envelope containing $400,000 was delivered to his residence in Lekki, while the second envelope containing $200,000 was received at the Tinubu Head Office of the CBN. He asserted that he was empowered to handle contract applications and selection of successful bidders.
“The man to deliver the second transaction came to our office in Lagos, and I informed the governor, but he said he did not want to see a third party and that I should bring the envelope myself.
“I complied with the instruction and delivered it to his office. Mr John Adeola was the one I sent my address to, and he came to my house. He is the governor’s assistant, and the total money I received on his behalf was $400,000 and $200,000,” he alleged.
Ayoh alleged that Emefiele preferred direct delivery of the second transaction envelope to his office, eschewing involvement of a third party. He claimed to have complied with this request and delivered it himself.
Under cross-examination by defense counsel Mr. Olalekan Ojo (SAN), Ayoh clarified that although he did not have specific errand duties, he worked directly under Emefiele. He denied involvement in criminal activities and emphasized operating under duress during the transactions.
Justice Rahman Oshodi admitted Ayoh’s statement into evidence after deliberation between counsels.
The case was adjourned until May 3 for further cross-examination, during which Emefiele’s counsel requested the defendant’s release on self-recognition, pending bail application fulfillment.