EFCC has taken a firm stance against former Central Bank Governor Godwin Emefiele’s legal maneuvers…
In a significant legal development, the EFCC has petitioned Justice Rahman Oshodi of the Lagos State Special Offences Court in Ikeja to dismiss an application by Godwin Emefiele, challenging the court’s jurisdiction to prosecute him. This move comes amidst allegations of financial misconduct during Emefiele’s tenure as CBN Governor. The EFCC, through its counsel Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), has labeled Emefiele’s application as an attempt to obstruct justice, arguing that the court has full authority to handle the case due to its nature involving economic and financial crimes.
Emefiele’s defense hinges on the contention that the Lagos High Court lacks the jurisdiction to try him for the alleged abuse of office…
Emefiele’s legal representation, Olalekan Ojo (SAN), has argued that prosecuting Emefiele in any state high court for the alleged abuse of office raises constitutional questions, particularly because the first four counts of the 26 charges against him are not rooted in existing Nigerian law. Ojo’s plea was for the court to dismiss these charges on the grounds that they do not fall within the court’s judicial purview, especially concerning actions taken in the role of CBN Governor.
However, the EFCC asserts that the venue is appropriate, given the location where the alleged crimes were committed…
Oyedepo countered by emphasizing that Lagos is the correct jurisdiction as it is where the alleged crimes took place, reinforcing the EFCC’s mandate to prosecute such offenses. He urged Justice Oshodi to disregard Emefiele’s jurisdictional challenge, stressing the lack of merit in the application and the necessity for the court to proceed with the trial.
Following the legal arguments from both sides, a decision is pending…
After hearing the detailed arguments, Justice Oshodi has scheduled January 7, 2025, to deliver his ruling on this crucial jurisdictional matter. This delay underlines the complexity of the case, involving high-profile figures and significant financial implications.
Background Context:
Emefiele, alongside Herry Omoile, was charged by the EFCC with multiple counts including accepting bribes, corruption, and fraudulent property dealings. Despite these severe allegations, both have entered not guilty pleas, setting the stage for a contentious legal battle over jurisdiction and the interpretation of Nigerian law regarding the prosecution of public officials.
This case not only tests the legal boundaries of prosecuting former high-ranking officials but also highlights the ongoing efforts by Nigeria’s anti-corruption agencies to hold those in power accountable for their actions.
