An Ikeja Special Offences Court on Wednesday refused a recusal application by embattled former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Godwin Emefiele.
Justice Rahman Oshodi refused the oral application of defence, seeking his recusal after reviewing the arguments of the parties.
The court cited various decisions of the Supreme Court.
Mr Oshodi said that the allegations of bias raised by the team of defence were unsubstantiated.
He said, “The oral application lacks merit.’’ He noted that there was no evidence to justify his withdrawal from the case.
Mr Oshodi said, “I have carefully considered the submission of the counsel. This oral application came as a result of a ruling delivered on January 24, asking the court to recuse itself from this case on the ground of bias. The allegation of bias has not been substantiated. Accordingly, the first and second defendants’ recusal application is hereby refused.”
Mr Emefiele’s counsel, Olalekan Ojo (SAN), on Monday urged the court to step down from the matter, arguing that the judge’s previous rulings suggested a likelihood of bias.
Counsel for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Rotimi Oyedepo, (SAN), had however objected to the application.
Mr Oyedepo argued that the application was unmeritorious and it was a delay tactic.
Mr Emefiele is standing trial on a 19-count charge bordering on receiving gratification and corrupt demands
Mr Emefiele’s co-defendant, Henry Omoile, is facing a three-count charge bordering on unlawful acceptance of gifts by agents.
When trial resumed on Wednesday, Mr Oyedepo appeared for the EFCC, Mr Ojo appeared for the embattled ex-CBN governor, and Kazeem Gbadamosi (SAN) appeared for the second defendant.
The court, in its second ruling on Wednesday, granted permission to Mr Emefiele to appeal the ruling delivered on January 8, challenging the jurisdiction of the court to hear his case.
Mr Oshodi adjourned the case until May 26 for continuation of trial.