A Lagos Special Offences Court will decide on February 26 whether Justice Rahman Oshodi will continue presiding over the trial of former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele.
Emefiele’s lawyer, Olalekan Ojo (SAN), and his co-defendant’s counsel, Kazeem Gbadamosi (SAN), have requested the judge’s withdrawal, alleging bias.
The former CBN governor is facing 19 corruption charges, while his co-defendant, Henry Omoile, is accused of unlawfully accepting gifts.
During Monday’s hearing, EFCC’s lead prosecutor, Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), presented testimony from Adetola John, a former aide to Emefiele, who reaffirmed that he delivered $400,000 in cash to the ex-CBN chief. A defence objection to evidence linked to this claim was overruled, prompting the recusal request.
The EFCC dismissed allegations of bias, stating that the defence was attempting to delay proceedings. Justice Oshodi adjourned the case for a ruling on the request.
