Forensic Expert: Signatures of Buhari, Ex-SGF forged to transfer $6.2m from CBN

A forensic document examiner working with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Bamaiyi Haruna, revealed that an analysis of documents used to withdraw $6.2m from the Central Bank of Nigeria in February 2023 indicated they were forged.

Haruna stated that the real signatures of former President Muhammadu Buhari and the ex-Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) were analyzed and found to be different from the signatures on the documents used to obtain the funds.

The EFCC alleged that former CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele, along with an individual now on the run, conspired to obtain the money from the CBN by claiming it was requested by the SGF in a letter dated January 26, 2023.

During the court session, former SGF Boss Mustapha confirmed that the documents did not originate from Buhari or his office, also stating that the Federal Government had no involvement with foreign election observers.

Haruna explained that the signatures on the documents used to withdraw the funds did not match the genuine signatures of Buhari and the ex-SGF, demonstrating differences in pen movement, loop formation, and other characteristics.

The EFCC’s counsel applied to tender a forensic report and other related documents, which were admitted as exhibits by Justice Hamza Muazu.

Emefiele’s lawyer did not oppose the submission of the forensic report.

The matter was adjourned till March 11 for further proceedings.