“SANs Accuse Justice Oshodi of Bias in Emefiele’s Trial, Demand Recusal”

Two Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SAN), Olalekan Ojo and Kazeem Gbadamosi, have accused Justice Abdulrahman Oshodi of showing bias against the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Ifeanyi Emefiele, during his ongoing trial. They have called for the judge to recuse himself from the proceedings, citing concerns over impartiality.

This request for recusal follows statements made by Justice Oshodi during the trial, where he allegedly indicated in open court that the allegation of Emefiele receiving bribe money had been proven. This was said during the examination-in-chief of a witness, Adetola John, by the prosecution counsel, Mr. Rotimi Oyedepo SAN.

The defence team quickly raised objections, arguing that the judge’s comments—made before cross-examination had even begun—suggested that the judge had already prejudged the case and was leaning toward convicting the former CBN governor. Olalekan Ojo, SAN, expressed frustration, remarking that while the court had promised an accelerated hearing, it appeared that the trial was instead being rushed toward a sentence.

Kazeem Gbadamosi, SAN, echoed these concerns, stressing that the judge’s statement regarding the alleged bribe money had essentially indicated that Emefiele was already convicted, despite the trial being far from complete. He demanded that Justice Oshodi step down from further hearings to preserve the fairness of the trial.

In response to the legal challenge, Justice Oshodi has scheduled a ruling for February 26 on the application asking him to recuse himself from the trial of Godwin Emefiele. The outcome of this application could have significant implications for the continuation of the trial.