The Department of State Services (DSS) controversially rearrested the suspended Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) governor, Godwin Emefiele, on Tuesday, July 25, prompting outrage among the majority of Nigerians. Emefiele, who had been in the custody of the DSS since June 10, 2023, after being relieved of his duty by President Bola Tinubu, had recently been granted bail by a Federal High Court. However, the DSS rearrested him based on an arrest warrant obtained from a magistrate’s court, causing further concerns over the legality and propriety of the action.
According to a source familiar with the case, the arrest warrant was issued on an allegation of financing terrorism, yet the details and basis of the accusation have not been disclosed to the defense team. The decision to obtain an arrest warrant from a magistrate’s court despite the previous grant of bail by a Federal High Court has raised questions about the motives and actions of the DSS.
The rearrest of Emefiele took place after officers of the secret police engaged in a dispute with agents from another federal agency, the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCS), over his custody. The lack of transparency and clarity surrounding the arrest warrant has fueled public frustration and concern over the handling of the case.
Emefiele’s case has drawn significant attention and condemnation from the Nigerian public, who are demanding transparency and accountability in the justice system. The controversy surrounding his rearrest has further raised questions about the rule of law and the impartiality of the security agencies involved.
As the situation unfolds, Nigerians await further updates and clarification from the relevant authorities on the arrest warrant and the reasons behind the DSS’s actions. The case highlights the need for a fair and just judicial process, as citizens continue to express their dissatisfaction and demand answers.
