• As Former CBN Boss Challenges Lagos Court’s Jurisdiction
The embattled former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele, has mounted a legal challenge against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over its authority to prosecute him in Lagos.
Emefiele, facing a 26-count charge of abuse of office involving $4.5 billion and N2.8 billion, insisted that the alleged offences fall outside the jurisdiction of the Ikeja Special Offences Court.
Emefiele is contending whether the alleged crimes, which include conferring corrupt advantages and abuse of office, occurred within the territorial reach of the Lagos court.
During a hearing on Thursday, Emefiele's counsel, Olalekan Ojo, SAN, argued that the charges violate Section 36(12) of the Constitution and that the Lagos State House of Assembly lacks legislative power over offences on the Exclusive Legislative List.
Ojo further contended that the Criminal Law of Lagos State, under which some charges were filed, cannot have extraterritorial application.
He urged the court to strike out counts 1–4 of the amended charges, claiming they are beyond the court’s geographical jurisdiction.
In response, EFCC counsel Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, maintained that the offences occurred within Lagos and fall under the court's jurisdiction.
Oyedepo argued that the crimes are economic and financial, placing them within the EFCC’s mandate.
He also noted that key witnesses and evidence are based in Lagos, reinforcing the appropriateness of the venue.
After hearing submissions from both sides, Justice Rahman Oshodi adjourned the case to January 7, 2025, to rule on the jurisdictional challenge.
Emefiele’s co-defendant, Henry Omoile, is also facing charges related to the unlawful acceptance of gifts. Both defendants have denied the allegations.
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