The Federal High Court in Abuja has granted former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Godwin Emefiele, an extension until January 25 to personally explain the circumstances surrounding a $53 million judgment debt resulting from the Paris Club refund.

In a brief ruling on Wednesday, Justice Inyang Ekwo allowed Emefiele another opportunity to appear in court, warning that a warrant for his arrest may be issued if he fails to do so.

Emefiele's counsel, Audu Anuga (SAN), informed the court that their efforts to secure his appearance had been unsuccessful as he was currently in custody. The case originated from a garnishee proceeding initiated by the Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Mr. Joe Agi, against the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to recover a $70 million judgment debt from Linas International Limited and the Minister of Finance.

According to court documents, the CBN had paid Agi a portion of the $70 million, leaving a balance of $53 million. Justice Ekwo had previously ordered Emefiele's appearance in court on multiple occasions.

During the recent proceedings, Emefiele's lawyer, Anuga, explained that he had filed an affidavit to show cause on Monday, addressing the potential issuance of an arrest warrant for Emefiele. A legal officer from the CBN, Jeremiah Utaan, stated in an affidavit that Emefiele had been in the custody of the Department of State Services since June 10. Utaan emphasized that issuing an arrest warrant would not serve the cause of justice.

The judge asked the judgment creditor's counsel, I.A. Nnana, if he had been served with the affidavit. Nnana confirmed that he had been served on Monday but requested additional response time. Justice Ekwo stressed that the flouting of court orders would not be tolerated and reiterated that Emefiele must personally appear before the court.

Emefiele has until January 25 to appear and address the court's concerns regarding the judgment debt.