Drama in court as judge refuses to step down in Emefiele’s trial

Justice Rahman Oshodi of the Lagos State Special Offences Court in Ikeja stood his ground on Wednesday, dismissing a request for his withdrawal from the ongoing trial of former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele.

The defense team, led by veteran lawyer Olalekan Ojo, had called for Justice Oshodi’s recusal, arguing that his earlier rulings suggested a likelihood of bias. But after careful consideration, the judge ruled otherwise.

“There is no evidence before this court to justify my withdrawal,” Justice Oshodi declared, his voice steady and firm. He added that the allegations of bias were simply unsubstantiated.

READ ALSO: Emefiele’s lawyers reject link to forfeited properties

The courtroom had been abuzz since Monday when Ojo made the oral application, expressing concern that his client might not get a fair trial. But the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), represented by Rotimi Oyedepo, pushed back, insisting the court had handled the case with fairness and transparency.

On Wednesday, Justice Oshodi ended the debate with a clear verdict: the application for his recusal lacked merit.

“The claims of bias have not been substantiated by either of the defendants,” the judge ruled. “Accordingly, the first and second defendants’ recusal application is refused.”

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