BY SPRINGNEWSNG FEBRUARY 27, 2025

A Lagos State Special Offences Court has dismissed a request for the recusal of Justice Rahman Oshodi from the ongoing trial of former Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, Godwin Emefiele.

Delivering his ruling on Wednesday, Justice Oshodi stated that the defence’s allegations of bias were unsubstantiated and that no evidence justified his withdrawal from the case. The defence, led by Olalekan Ojo, had on Monday orally applied for the judge’s recusal, arguing that his previous rulings indicated a likelihood of bias.

However, Rotimi Oyedepo, counsel for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), opposed the application, maintaining that the proceedings had been conducted fairly and equitably.

After considering the arguments and legal authorities cited, Justice Oshodi ruled that the application lacked merit and dismissed it.

“The claims of bias have not been substantiated by either of the defendants.

“Accordingly, the first and second defendants’ recusal application is refused,” Oshodi ruled.

SaharaReporters reports that Emefiele is facing a 19-count charge filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), accusing him of receiving gratification and making corrupt demands.

His co-defendant, Henry Omoile, is also facing a three-count charge of unlawfully accepting gifts as an agent. Both defendants have pleaded not guilty.

During Monday’s court session, the prosecution, led by Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, had completed the examination-in-chief of its seventh witness, Adetola John.

However, instead of proceeding with cross-examination, Emefiele’s counsel, Olalekan Ojo, SAN, and Omoile’s counsel, Kazeem Gbadamosi, SAN, had requested the judge to withdraw from the case, citing concerns of bias.

Oyedepo, however, opposed the motion, dismissing it as a delay tactic.