CBN Corruption Scandal: Ex-Director Admits Taking $600,000 in Bribes for Emefiele

Mr. John Ayoh, a former Director of Information Technology at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), confessed to collecting a total of $600,000 in bribes on behalf of Godwin Emefiele, the ex-governor of the CBN. Ayoh’s testimony came as he was being led in evidence by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) counsel, Mr. Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), at the Ikeja Special Offences Court in Lagos.

Ayoh disclosed that he collected two envelopes containing bribe money from contractors—$400,000 at his residence in Lekki Phase One, and $200,000 at the CBN’s Tinubu Head Office. The former CBN director, who was once Head of Procurement and Support Services, stated that he had been tasked with managing contract applications and selecting successful bidders.

The testimony revealed that Ayoh facilitated bribe transactions, one at his home and the other at the CBN office. He mentioned that the first envelope was delivered to his home by Mr. John Adeola, Emefiele’s assistant, and the second envelope was handed over to him at the CBN office with strict instructions from Emefiele not to involve any third parties.

During cross-examination by the defense counsel, Mr. Olalekan Ojo (SAN), Ayoh stated that he had no part in the decision-making process of the Major Contract Tender Committee (MCTC), although he did recommend contract awards. He also claimed to have been under duress while handling the bribes.

The EFCC objected to defense questions about Ayoh’s written statement, arguing it wasn’t before the court. However, Justice Rahman Oshodi admitted the three-page statement into evidence following arguments from both sides. The court adjourned the case until May 3 for further cross-examination.

Emefiele’s counsel appealed for his client’s release on self-recognition due to delays in meeting bail conditions. The court reserved judgment, with a hearing set for May 17.