Department of State Services (DSS) operatives have seized 18 bags, commonly referred to as “Ghana-must-go” bags, filled with money and documents from the residence of Godwin Emefiele, the suspended governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). According to a source who spoke with Nigeria Tribune, the bags were confiscated during an extensive search of Emefiele’s home in Lagos, which took place throughout the day on Friday.
Emefiele, who was arrested on June 10, has been held in DSS custody for eight days. Insiders familiar with the matter suggest that his detention may be extended as investigations into his conduct as the head of the CBN continue. While the DSS has the authority, with court approval, to detain the former CBN leader for up to three weeks, there are indications that this period might be prolonged.
Following the completion of the property search, Emefiele was escorted from Abuja, where he was being held, back to Lagos. The large bags seized during the search were collected, and Emefiele was subsequently flown back to Abuja, where further questioning took place. Additionally, authorities are reportedly searching for Emefiele’s personal assistant, who is currently missing, in connection with the discoveries made during the ongoing investigation.
According to a source quoted by the Nigerian Tribune, “DSS took Emefiele to his house in Lagos on Thursday and returned him to Abuja on Friday afternoon. His house was searched. They took away about 18 big Ghana-must-go bags containing money and documents from the house. His personal assistant is on the run. DSS is on a manhunt for him.”
The suspension of Emefiele as CBN governor and the initiation of an investigation was carried out by President Bola Tinubu on June 9, leading to Emefiele’s subsequent arrest by the DSS.