EFCC declares Emefiele’s wife, three others wanted for money laundering

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has issued a declaration naming Margaret Emefiele, spouse of former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele, along with three others, as wanted individuals for their suspected involvement in money laundering activities.

The EFCC has identified Margaret Emefiele, Eric Odoh, Anita Omoile, and her husband Jonathan Omoile as persons of interest in a scheme allegedly aimed at converting significant sums of money belonging to the Federal Government of Nigeria.

The agency has leveled accusations against them, including offenses such as obtaining money under false pretenses, theft, and violations of Sections 411, 287, and 314 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State. In a statement released late Friday evening, the EFCC provided mugshot portraits of the four suspects, urging anyone with pertinent information regarding their whereabouts to reach out to the nearest EFCC Command or police station.

“Emefiele, Odoh, Mr. and Mrs. Omoile, sought by the EFCC. Eric Odoh, Margaret Emefiele, Anita Omoile, and Jonathan Omoile are wanted by the EFCC for their alleged involvement in economic and financial crimes. Any leads on their locations? Please contact the nearest EFCC Command or police station,” the statement read.

This declaration of being wanted emerges in the midst of ongoing legal proceedings against Godwin Emefiele, who faces charges of fraud amounting to ₦1.8 billion and $6.2 million.

The most recent amended charge, presented before Justice Hamza Muazu of the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja, accuses Emefiele of impersonating the Secretary to the Government of the Federation to unlawfully obtain $6.2 million.

The EFCC alleges that Emefiele, in collusion with Odoh Ocheme, acquired the funds from the CBN under false pretenses, claiming it was at the request of the SGF.

Additionally, Emefiele stands accused of document forgery and bestowing corrupt advantages upon his spouse and brother-in-law by awarding them contracts for the refurbishment of the CBN Governor’s residence in Lagos.