Court Denies Emefiele’s Bid to Remove Oshodi from Corruption Trial

Justice Rahman Oshodi of the Lagos State Special Offences Court in Ikeja has dismissed a request to step down from the trial of former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele.

Emefiele’s legal team, led by Olalekan Ojo (SAN), had asked the judge to recuse himself, accusing him of bias. The request was made during a hearing on Monday, with the defence arguing that the judge’s impartiality was in question. Justice Oshodi had adjourned the case until February 26, 2025, to rule on the matter.

Delivering his decision on Wednesday, Justice Oshodi described the defence’s claims of bias as unfounded and without sufficient evidence to justify his withdrawal from the case. He emphasized that the trial had been conducted fairly, as stated by the prosecution, represented by Rotimi Oyedepo from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

After considering both parties’ arguments and relevant legal points, Justice Oshodi concluded that the request lacked merit and rejected it.

Emefiele is facing 19 charges, including abuse of office, receiving gratification, and corrupt demands, as brought forward by the EFCC.