Because they control so much wealth, and wealth influences power, no CBN Governor in the last thirty years has left office unscathed. Paul Ogwuma was almost arrested for the atrocities committed by Sani Abacha and was asked to refund monies by the Abdulsalami administration.
Joseph Sanusi was denied a second term by President Obasanjo after Nigeria almost defaulted on her foreign loans. President Yar’adua almost fired Charles Soludo over the failed Naira redenomination policy and was not reappointed. Sanusi Lamido Sanusi was suspended for financial malfeasance (the same reason for his removal as Emir).
In the last thirty years, Emefiele has been the only CBN Governor reappointed for a second tenure. And what makes his case even more unique is that he was appointed by one President from one party and reappointed by another from a different party. So think twice before you condemn Emefiele.
He held an office that was literally the most sought-after non-elective position in Nigeria. There are lots of accusations against him and no evidence as of yet. A media trial by a mob will not get to the bottom of this issue. If the Tinubu administration feels he has a case to answer, let him be charged to court and given the judicial and media space to defend himself.
Reno Omokri
