By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu, Warri
DELTA: A Lagos Special Offences Court, presided over by Justice R.A. Oshodi, will on February 26, 2025, deliver a ruling on an application filed by former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele, seeking the judge’s recusal from his ongoing trial over alleged corruption.
Emefiele, who is facing a 19-count charge brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged gratification and corrupt demands, has accused the trial judge of bias.
His co-defendant, Henry Omoile, is also facing a separate three-count charge related to unlawful acceptance of gifts. Both defendants have pleaded not guilty.
During the hearing on February 24, 2025, Emefiele’s counsel, Olalekan Ojo (SAN), and Omoile’s lawyer, Kazeem Gbadamosi (SAN), jointly called on the judge to step down from the case, arguing that their clients would not get a fair trial.
Their request came after the prosecution, led by Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), concluded its examination of the seventh witness, Adetola John. However, rather than proceed with cross-examination, the defence insisted the judge should recuse himself.
Oyedepo strongly opposed the application, describing it as a delay tactic. “Your lordship has ruled against the prosecution numerous times, yet we have not made any allegations of bias. If the defence is dissatisfied with any ruling, they can appeal,” he said.
He further urged the court to dismiss the application and direct the defence to continue with cross-examination. “This court had earlier granted an accelerated hearing in this case, and this move by the defence only seeks to stall the trial,” he added.
After hearing arguments from both sides, Justice Oshodi adjourned proceedings to rule on the request.