John Ayoh, a former Director of Information Technology at the Central Bank of Nigeria, alleged on Monday that he collected $600,000 on behalf of the former CBN governor, Godwin Emefiele, from contractors in two installments. Ayoh made this revelation while testifying as the second witness for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) at the Ikeja Special Offences Court in Lagos.
During cross-examination by defence counsel Olalekan Ojo (SAN), Ayoh admitted to facilitating the alleged bribery under pressure. Emefiele is facing legal battles over alleged abuse of office and accepting gratification totaling $4.5 billion and N2.8 billion.
Ayoh disclosed that he collected the first $400,000 at his house in Lekki, Lagos, while his assistant, John Adetola, received it. The second bribe of $200,000 was collected at the CBN headquarters. Ayoh mentioned that Emefiele insisted on receiving the package directly from him.
When questioned about his involvement in criminal activity, Ayoh denied knowledge but admitted to being pressured to bend the rules. He clarified that he did not count the money in the envelopes but acknowledged that it was given to influence contract awards.
Emefiele’s counsel argued for the quashing of counts one to four and counts eight to 24 against him, citing jurisdictional issues. The court adjourned the case until May 3 for a decision on jurisdiction.
