Eric Patrick
Justice R.A. Oshodi of the Special Offences Court in Ikeja, Lagos, has adjourned ruling on February 26, 2025, on an application filed by former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele, seeking the judge’s recusal over alleged bias.
Emefiele is currently facing a 19-count charge, including receiving gratification and corrupt demands, brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). His co-defendant, Henry Omoile, is also facing a three-count charge for allegedly accepting unlawful gifts. Both defendants have pleaded not guilty.
At Monday’s proceedings on February 24, 2025, EFCC’s lead prosecutor, Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), concluded the examination-in-chief of the seventh prosecution witness, Adetola John. However, instead of proceeding with cross-examination, Emefiele’s counsel, Olalekan Ojo (SAN), and Omoile’s counsel, Kazeem Gbadamosi (SAN), jointly requested the judge to recuse himself, citing alleged bias.
READ ALSO: Court Confirms Final Forfeiture of $4.7m, ₦830m Properties Tied to Emefiele
Oyedepo strongly opposed the application, arguing that the court had previously ruled against the prosecution multiple times, demonstrating impartiality. He dismissed the request as a “delay tactic” and urged the judge to reject it, emphasizing that the court had already granted an accelerated hearing for the case.
Justice Oshodi subsequently adjourned to rule on the application.
Meanwhile, First News reported on February 21, 2025, that Justice Yellim Bogoro of the Federal High Court in Lagos ordered the final forfeiture of $4.7 million, N830 million, and multiple properties linked to Emefiele. The former CBN governor has denied ownership of the forfeited assets, stating that they belong to DeepBlue Energy Limited, a company owned by a relative.