Judge rejects request to step down from Emefiele’s trial

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

In a ruling delivered on Wednesday, Justice Oshodi stated that the defence’s allegations of bias were not supported by evidence, affirming that there was no valid reason for him to withdraw from the proceedings.

The defence team, led by Olalekan Ojo, had made an oral application on Monday, claiming the judge’s earlier decisions indicated potential bias.

In response, Rotimi Oyedepo, counsel for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, opposed the request, asserting that the trial had been conducted with fairness and impartiality.

After reviewing the arguments presented, Justice Oshodi dismissed the application, stating:
“The claims of bias have not been substantiated by either of the defendants.
“Accordingly, the first and second defendants’ recusal application is refused,” he ruled.