Nigeria has sought Interpol’s assistance in apprehending three individuals accused of embezzling $6.2 million (£4.9 million) from the central bank, exploiting the forged signature of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
The suspects, identified as Adamu Abubakar, Imam Abubakar, and Odoh Ocheme, including the country’s ex-central bank chief, Godwin Emefiele, allegedly conspired in the theft.
Emefiele is currently facing trial on multiple charges, with authorities contending he illegally received the embezzled funds.
The accused deny all allegations. Interpol’s cooperation is being sought to locate and return the suspects who have reportedly left Nigeria.
The government initiated their arrest following testimony by Boss Mustapha, a senior official from the previous administration, stating that neither he nor Buhari authorized the fund withdrawal.
The alleged embezzlement occurred months before Buhari concluded his term. Prosecutors claim Emefiele falsified documents, requesting the central bank release the funds for purported foreign election observer payments.
Emefiele, appointed in 2014 and reappointed in 2019, denies any wrongdoing.