Following clarifications from Mr Emefiele over calls for his resignation a Civil Society Organisation (CSO), Save Nigeria Movement has described as shameful, calls emanating from Nigerians for the disengagement of Emefiele following the reported purchase of his presidential nomination form.

In a press release signed and made available to journalist by the Convener, Rev. Solomon Semaka in Abuja on the 6th of May, 2022, the CSO wondered why there is so much focus on the person of Emefiele and his bid to contest for next year’s presidential election.

“We are alarmed at the overwhelming focus on the alleged presidential aspiration of Chief Godwin Emefiele, the current CBN Governor by politicians. It simply shows how his solid personality is a threat to everyone. As a Nigerian, he has every right to contest any election just like every other appointee and his position as CBN Governor should not be used against him “, the statement noted.

The CSO stated further that those calling for the sack of Emefiele as CBN Governor must not forget that several government appointees and political office holders who have indicated interest to contest next years election and have purchased the forms just as he did are still holding their current offices.

“There is overwhelming evidence that Governors and other elected and appointed political office holders who are going from one state to another consulting and soliciting the support of electorates are still holding onto their present posts. No one has quoted the constitution to demand their sack. Why is Governor Akeredolu asking for the sack of Emefiele? This is simply an attempt to distract the financial czar whose magic touch has transformed the Nigerian economy which was ravaged by the past administration”, the statement added.

The CSO called on politicians not to be intimidated by the candidature of Mr Emefiele, adding that the constitution and electoral law have made adequate provisions to address issues relating to eligibility of candidates. Further urging citizens to seek clarifications rather than resort to blackmail.

“Emefiele’s candidature is a national and global project. As a law abiding citizen, he is strictly operating in accordance with extant laws including the CBN Act, Electoral Act and the Constitution. “Nobody can stake their hard earned integrity without consulting the law” Emefiele’s aspiration is in the right standing with the law”, the statement added.

The CSO urged Nigerians to remember that Mr Emiefele’s aspiration is based on the call of numerous civil society organisations, youth groups and socio-cultural organisations both at home and in the diaspora who have insisted that he should contest and consolidate on president Buhari administration modest feats with some even threatening him with lawsuits should he decline to heed the clarion call.

“We must always stand with men who have good precedents” The reduction in inflation rate, unemployment as well as growth recorded in the manufacturing and agricultural sectors of our national life are giant achievements driven by Mr Emiefele leadership of the apex bank. He can as well lead a complex nation like Nigeria and that’s our goal for the country”, the statement added.

While calling on Nigerians to disregard attempts by desperate politicians to tarnish the reputation of a good man, the CSO enjoined all Nigerians of goodwill to continue to identify with Chief Godwin Emiefele and other candidates that have something tangible to offer the Nigerian State in 2023.

The group said it has reproduced verbatim Mr Emiefele’s position and hopes the matter is put to rest.

“I am humbled by the growing interest of those asking that I run for the Office of President in the 2023 general elections: I have not come to that decision. I note and salute the sacrifices of those farmers and patriots going as far as raising personal funds…

…and offering me Presidential Nomination Forms: I thank them most profusely. However, Should I answer their calls and decide to seek presidential nomination, I will use my own hard earned savings from over 35 years of banking leadership to buy my own Nomination Forms…

…without proxies in an open and transparent manner in full compliance with the laws and Constitution of The Federal Republic of Nigeria. And should I not run for elected office…

…I will continue to serve and sacrifice for the good people of Nigeria under the able leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari. This is a serious decision that requires God’s Divine intervention: in the next few days The Almighty will so direct…”