EFCC’s ‘Wanted’ Declaration on Emefiele’s Wife Nullified by Court
By A Federal High Court in Lagos has ruled that the EFCC’s declaration of Margaret Emefiele, wife of former Central Bank Governor Godwin Emefiele, as a “wanted person” is illegal. Mrs. Emefiele challenged the EFCC and its chairman for listing her as wanted and displaying her photo on its website without a valid court order.
In case number FHC/L/CS/262/2024, Mrs. Emefiele argued that the EFCC’s actions violated her fundamental human rights. She sought the removal of her name and photo from the EFCC’s website and an apology for the infringement.
Justice D. I. Dipeolu ruled that the EFCC’s publication violated Sections 41 and 42 of the ACJA, 2015, as well as her constitutional rights. The court ordered the EFCC to pay N3 million in damages and to issue a public apology on its website.
The judge upheld Mrs. Emefiele’s rights to life, personal liberty, dignity, and security under the Nigerian Constitution and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. The ruling emphasizes the need for due process and adherence to legal standards in law enforcement actions.