An Ikeja Special Offences Court has dismissed an application by former Central Bank Governor Godwin Emefiele, challenging its jurisdiction to try him on charges filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The EFCC accused Emefiele of financial misconduct, alleging losses of $4.5 billion and ₦2.8 billion. Justice Rahman Oshodi ruled that the court had jurisdiction over counts eight to 26 but struck out counts one to four, which he said did not constitute offences under any written law.
Emefiele’s counsel, Olalekan Ojo (SAN), argued that the alleged offences fell outside the court’s jurisdiction, but the EFCC’s counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), countered that the crimes were economic in nature and linked to Lagos.
The trial continues on February 24, 2025.
