On Tuesday, the suspended Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele filed an originating motion on notice at the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja, challenging his detention by the Department of State Services (DSS).
Emefiele is seeking the court’s help in enforcing his right to liberty and freedom of movement, arguing that there is no legal basis for his continued detention.
Unfortunately, both the Attorney General of the Federation and the DSS refute this claim, insisting that the detention of the suspended CBN Governor is lawful.
The AGF and the DSS filed a preliminary objection to Emefiele’s fundamental rights enforcement suit, arguing that his detention had been approved by an order from a magistrates’ court.
They have requested that the court dismiss Emefiele’s motion with costs.
They noted that the arrest of the former CBN governor was an administrative decision of the DSS.
The AGF is also challenging the jurisdiction of the court to entertain the suit, as the originating motion filed by Mr. Emefiele ought to have sought that the court set aside the order for his detention rather than seek enforcement of rights.
The DSS, on its part, is also challenging the motion for bail filed by Mr Emefiele.
The case has been adjourned till July 13 for ruling.