Lagos, February 26, 2025 – A Lagos State Special Offences Court has dismissed a request for Justice Rahman Oshodi to withdraw from the trial of former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele.
Delivering his ruling on Wednesday, Justice Oshodi stated that the defence’s claims of bias were unproven and that there was no legal basis for his recusal.
The request was made by Emefiele’s defence counsel, Olalekan Ojo, SAN, who argued that the judge’s previous rulings suggested a likelihood of bias. However, Rotimi Oyedepo, counsel for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), opposed the application, describing it as a delay tactic.
After reviewing the arguments, Justice Oshodi ruled that the application lacked merit.
“The claims of bias have not been substantiated by either of the defendants. Accordingly, the first and second defendants’ recusal application is refused,” he stated.
Emefiele is facing a 19-count charge filed by the EFCC, accusing him of receiving gratification and making corrupt demands. His co-defendant, Henry Omoile, is also charged with unlawfully accepting gifts as an agent. Both have pleaded not guilty.
During Monday’s court session, the prosecution, led by Oyedepo, had completed its examination of the seventh witness, Adetola John. However, instead of proceeding with cross-examination, the defence requested the judge to withdraw from the case, citing concerns over impartiality.
With the recusal request now dismissed, the trial is set to continue as the court hears further evidence in the corruption case against the former CBN governor.
