CBN slams Nigeria media over report on Deputy Governor

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has faulted a newspaper report alleging that one of its Deputy Governors was arrested and made to forfeit some amount of money to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Coincidentally, President Muhammadu Buhari, on Thursday presented Mrs. Aishah Ahmad to the Senate for confirmation as Deputy Governor of the CBN, while seeking the confirmation of appointment of members of the Monetary Policy Committee of the apex bank.

The Acting Director, Corporate Communications Department, Mr. Isaac Okorafor, in a statement said that the attention of the central bank has been drawn to the newspaper report but wish to state categorically that there is no iota of truth in the report and it is, without doubt, a mere figment of the writer’s imagination.

According to him, the Bank and its officials will not be distracted from the onerous task of ensuring stability in the financial system, and indeed the economy, at this critical time.

However, such person(s) bent on disparaging the Bank and its officials should note that legal options would be explored to protect its reputation from being tarnished in any manner.

“We therefore, implore members of the media to always exercise caution and endeavour to verify their stories before rushing to the press”, he stated.

According to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, in Abuja on Thursday, she is to replace a former Deputy Governor, who retired early this year.

The statement did not, however, name the retiree, but it said in accordance with the provisions of Section 8(1) (2) of the Central Bank of Nigeria (Establishment) Act 2007, President Buhari urged the Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, to consider the expeditious confirmation of Mrs Ahmad, who would then resume work immediately.

In the same vein, the President has written the Senate, seeking the confirmation of appointment of members of the MPC of the central bank, who are to replace four members, whose tenure expires at the end of this year.

The nominees are: Professor Adeola Festus Adenikinju; Dr Aliyu Rafindadi Sanusi; Dr Robert Chikwendu Asogwa and Dr Asheikh A. Maidugu.