Senate President Godswill Akpabio has expressed deep concern over the state of the nation’s economy, attributing its current challenges to the tenure of former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele.
Speaking at a Thanksgiving service hosted by Senator Barinada Mpigi in Koroma, Tai Local Government Area of Rivers State, Akpabio lamented the policies and actions of Emefiele during his tenure, which he claims have exacerbated hardships in the country.
Akpabio asserted that President Bola Tinubu, who has expressed interest in fixing the economy, is capable of addressing these issues despite the complexities involved.
He urged Nigerians to exercise patience, acknowledging that the economic problems accumulated over decades cannot be resolved overnight.
Regarding Emefiele, Akpabio hinted at possible charges against him, citing concerns ranging from alleged illegal possession of firearms to the unauthorised printing of currency notes.
He emphasised the gravity of the economic challenges facing the nation, noting the expanded criminal charges against Emefiele, which now stand at 20 counts, including allegations of criminal breach of trust, forgery, and conspiracy.
Emefiele, who was removed from his position in June 2023, has been under scrutiny for financial crimes, with the federal government intensifying its legal action against him. The amendments to the charges against him reflect the government’s determination to pursue accountability for alleged financial misconduct during his tenure.