The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has appealed to Justice Rahman Oshodi of the Lagos State Special Offences Court, Ikeja, to reject a jurisdictional challenge filed by former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele.
EFCC counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), criticised the application as a delay tactic, insisting the Lagos State High Court has jurisdiction to hear the case.
He dismissed arguments by Emefiele’s lawyer, Olalekan Ojo (SAN), who claimed the charges, particularly those involving abuse of office, fall outside the court’s purview.
Ojo further argued that four of the 26 charges lack legal backing and urged the court to dismiss the case.
In rebuttal, Oyedepo maintained that the EFCC is authorised to prosecute economic and financial crimes in Lagos, where the alleged offences were committed.
He called for the court to strike out the jurisdictional objection.
Justice Oshodi, after hearing submissions from both parties, set January 7, 2025, to deliver his ruling.
Emefiele, alongside Herry Omoile, faces 26 charges, including gratification, corruption, and fraudulent property dealings.
Both defendants pleaded not guilty, with allegations of granting corrupt advantages to associates under the Corrupt Practices Act 2000.
