Senate President Accuses Ex-CBN Governor Emefiele of Election Sabotage

Accusations Against Ex-CBN Governor

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has leveled serious allegations against the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele.

Akpabio claims that Emefiele’s naira redesign policy was an attempt to sabotage the 2023 election.

Akpabio’s Remarks During Nominee Screening

Akpabio made these accusations while presiding over the screening process of Olayemi Cardoso, the nominee for the position of CBN governor, and four deputy governor nominees for the apex bank.

During this session, he directed a series of pointed questions at Cardoso, probing his potential involvement in politics.

Specific Allegations

Akpabio’s allegations encompassed several key points.

Firstly, he asked whether Cardoso, if confirmed as CBN governor, would uphold the integrity and steadfastness needed to resist pressure from politicians urging him to enter the presidential race.

He inquired whether Cardoso would display campaign materials or profile himself electronically at political conventions while holding the position of CBN governor.

Emphasis on the Central Bank’s Role

The Senate President stressed the importance of recognizing that the funds within the central bank are not personal assets.

He questioned whether Cardoso would have the courage to resist political temptations and return to his duties as CBN governor.

Naira Redesign and Election Timing

Akpabio’s accusations extended to the timing of the naira redesign policy. He expressed concerns about the central bank’s role in potentially sabotaging the Nigerian election by introducing new currency notes just two days before the election date.

He highlighted that such actions are uncommon globally, where currency changes typically occur over a more extended period.

These allegations and questions from Akpabio underscore the complex interplay between financial policies, political influences, and the responsibilities of central bank governors in Nigeria.