Emefiele Trial: Court Sets Date to Rule on Omoile’s Statement

An Ikeja Special Offences Court has scheduled May 4, 2026, as the date to deliver its ruling on whether an extra-judicial statement made by a co-defendant in the trial of former Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, Godwin Emefiele, will be admitted as evidence.

The statement in question was made by Henry Omoile, who is standing trial alongside Emefiele.

Justice Rahman Oshodi fixed the ruling date after both prosecution and defence counsel adopted their final written addresses during a trial-within-trial.

The proceeding is aimed at determining whether Omoile’s statement was made voluntarily and can be admitted as evidence.

Emefiele is facing a 19-count charge bordering on alleged gratification, corrupt demands, and abuse of office.

The charges are linked to transactions estimated at $4.5 billion and ₦2.8 billion.

Omoile, on his part, is facing a three-count charge relating to the alleged unlawful acceptance of gifts in connection with dealings involving the Central Bank.

Counsel to Omoile, Adeyinka Kotoye (SAN), argued that the statement should be rejected on the grounds that it was not made voluntarily.

He cited provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act and Law, stressing that interrogation processes should be video-recorded to ensure transparency.

The defence also raised concerns about possible coercion, inducement, and lack of proper legal representation during the recording of the statement.

Similarly, Emefiele’s counsel, Olalekan Ojo (SAN), urged the court to resolve any doubts in favour of the defence, relying on provisions of the Evidence Act which render involuntary statements inadmissible.

On the other hand, the Director of Public Prosecutions, Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), argued that the statement was obtained in line with legal requirements.

He maintained that although the statement was not video-recorded, it was made in the presence of Omoile’s lawyer.

Oyedepo also noted that the content of the statement undermines claims of coercion, as the defendant did not implicate Emefiele and denied the allegations against himself.

Following the adoption of arguments, the court adjourned for ruling on May 4, 2026.

Justice Oshodi also fixed June 26 and June 30, 2026, for the continuation of the substantive trial.