Proceedings in the ongoing trial of former Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, Godwin Emefiele, were on Friday, April 17, adjourned by an Ikeja Special Offences Court, with a ruling on the admissibility of a key extra-judicial statement scheduled for May 4, 2026.
Justice Rahman Oshodi fixed the date after both the prosecution and defence concluded arguments in a trial-within-trial to determine whether a statement made by co-defendant, Henry Omoile, was voluntarily given.
The admissibility of the statement is considered crucial to the broader case, which centres on allegations of financial misconduct involving Emefiele and Omoile.
While Emefiele is facing a 19-count charge bordering on alleged gratification, corrupt demands, and abuse of office, Omoile is standing trial on a three-count charge related to the alleged unlawful acceptance of gifts linked to Central Bank dealings.
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The prosecution alleged that the transactions under investigation involve about $4.5bn and ₦2.8bn.
During proceedings, counsel for the second defendant, Adeyinka Kotoye, argued that the key issue before the court is whether the statement was obtained voluntarily, citing concerns over compliance with due process.
Similarly, counsel to Emefiele, Olalekan Ojo, urged the court to reject the statement, insisting that any doubt surrounding its voluntariness must be resolved in favour of the accused.
In contrast, the Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation, Rotimi Oyedepo, maintained that the statement was lawfully obtained and should be admitted as evidence.
Following the submissions, the court adjourned for ruling, while fixing June 26 and June 30, 2026, for the continuation of the substantive trial.