The Lagos State Special Offences Court in Ikeja, presided over by Justice Rahman Oshodi, has scheduled February 26, 2025, to decide whether to continue presiding over the trial of embattled former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele.
The decision follows an oral application by Emefiele’s counsel, Olalekan Ojo (SAN), requesting the judge to recuse himself from the case, numbered ID/23787C/24.
Ojo raised concerns of potential bias, arguing that an unfair ruling could jeopardize his client’s right to a fair trial.
During Monday’s proceedings, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) prosecution counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), continued presenting evidence through the seventh prosecution witness, Mr John Adetola.
Adetola testified that he collected $400,000 from John Ayoh and delivered it to Emefiele in his office.
However, when Oyedepo sought to confirm a WhatsApp message printed from Adetola’s phone by another individual, Mr Henry Omoile, the defence team objected.
They contended that the document had only been marked for identification and was not yet an exhibit before the court.
Justice Oshodi overruled the objection, allowing the witness to read from the document.
Dissatisfied with the ruling, Ojo (SAN) contended that the judge’s decision was unfair and called for his recusal.
He emphasized that bias, whether conscious or unconscious, could influence the outcome of the trial.
Oyedepo opposed the application, asserting that the proceedings had been conducted fairly.
He maintained that the defence had not presented any factual basis for the allegation of bias and criticized the oral nature of the application, stating, “This application is intended to delay the matter; that is the only reasonable conclusion.”
Emefiele is currently being accused of receiving gratification and making corrupt demands, filed by the EFCC.
His co-defendant, Henry Omoile, is also facing three counts related to the unlawful acceptance of gifts by agents.
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