Nigeria News Nalin Former Nigeria Central Bank (CBN) Governor Godwin Emefiele asked Justice Rahman Oshodi of the Lagos State Special Crime Court to be in Ikeja (Ikeja) withdraws his ongoing trial, allegedly $4.5 billion and $2.8 billion in fraud.
Emefiele’s legal team, by Orionte Rain (SAN) accused the judge of being biased and urged him to withdraw from further litigation.
The request was filed at a hearing held on Monday at the Special Crime Court in Ikeja, Lagos. Justice Ossadi has adjourned the case until February 26, 2025 to determine whether he will resign.
Emefiele faces 19 charges, including abuse of his post, acceptance of meeting and corruption demands, filed by him Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC).
Initially, the EFCC filed 22 charges against Emefiele and its co-defendant. Henry a babybut on January 8, 2025, the court filed four counts of abuse of office, retaining jurisdiction over the remaining charges.
Witness testimony and WhatsApp evidence
The seventh time for witness prosecuted at Monday’s hearing John Adetolaprove that he has John Ayoh And handed it over to his office Emefiele.
The prosecution also tried to introduce WhatsApp messages retrieved from the “self-esteem” mobile phone as evidence. However, the defense objected, believing that the document was accepted for identification only and could not be used as evidence.
Despite opposition, Justice Oshodi allowed witnesses to read from the documents, prompting Emmefell’s lawyer to accuse the bias.
Defence demands a retreat
Ojo, who argued about Emefiele, said: “Judges can be prejudiced consciously or unconsciously… At this stage, I urge the court to withdraw itself. ”
Morlier’s lawyer, Cozeem’s collective (SAN), also consistent with Ojo’s location.
EFCC’s response
EFCC lawyer, rotimi oyedepo (SAN) objected to the application, calling it a delay tactic.
“The process has been carried out fairly and equitably. My rule over us many times. If the defense is not satisfied, they will know the appropriate legal channels to challenge the ruling“oyedepo arguub.
He further noted that the request should be formally made, not orally, adding:The application is intended to delay the matter, which is the only reasonable conclusion. ”
Waiting for application
Prior to the adjournment, Emefiele’s legal team also sought leave to appeal the court’s previous ruling on jurisdiction.
Justice Ossadi has fixed the ruling on February 26, 2025 to make a decision based on review requests and other pending applications.
