The Department of State Services explained the reason why it has not released the suspended Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, Godwin Emefiele.

Nigeria’s secret police indicated that Emefiele would flee the country if granted bail, as reported by the Punch newspaper.

The Attorney General of the Federation also corroborated the argument of the DSS, saying Emefiele is a “flight risk,” indicating his chances of running away should the ex-CBN boss get the chance.

This was contained in separate counter-affidavits filed by the DSS and the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation in a fundamental rights enforcement suit by the suspended CBN boss.

The OAGF also denied a viral claim that Emefiele is being held for financing terror related activities in the country.

The OAGF said: “Issues of terrorism financing and fraudulent activities are not part of the grounds for the arrest and detention of the applicant.

“The respondents have not violated the applicant’s right to live in any way, his life is not in danger. The respondents did not subject the applicant to any judicial adjudication to warrant the allegation of denial of a fair hearing.

“With the remand order issued by a court of competent jurisdiction, the said violation of the applicant’s right to freedom of movement does not arise.

Emefiele has been contesting his detention by the DSS, and has denied him the opportunity to meet his family members and lawyers.

His counsel maintained that Mr. Emefiele’s continued incarceration was a violation of his rights.

According to DSS lawyers, a lower court has allowed the agency to detain the banker while investigations continue.

Justice Hamza Muazu adjourned the case until July 13 for a ruling.