Judge rejects request to withdraw from Emefiele’s trial
Justice Rahman Oshodi of the Lagos State Special Offences Court in Ikeja has dismissed a request for his recusal from the ongoing trial of the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Godwin Emefiele.
Delivering his ruling on Wednesday, Justice Oshodi held that the allegations of bias raised by the defence were unsubstantiated, stating that there was no evidence to justify his withdrawal from the case.
The defence, led by Olalekan Ojo, had on Monday orally applied for the judge to recuse himself, arguing that his previous rulings suggested a likelihood of bias.
However, Rotimi Oyedepo, counsel for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, opposed the application, insisting that the proceedings had been conducted fairly and equitably.
After reviewing 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.
