The trial of the former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele, and his co-defendants in a case involving $4.5 billion and N2.8 billion in alleged fraud, faced delays in the Lagos Special Offences Court, Ikeja, due to additional evidence presented by the prosecution, as reported by Nigeria Tribune.
Justice Rahman Oshodi had previously ordered an accelerated hearing at the commencement of the trial, thwarting attempts by Emefiele to stall proceedings by filing a jurisdiction application. However, at the resumed proceeding, the prosecution team, led by Mr. Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), disclosed the presence of the second prosecution witness and served the defence with the statement of Mr. John Adetola as additional proof of evidence.
Emefiele's legal counsel, Mr. Olalekan Ojo (SAN), argued that the defence had not been given sufficient time to thoroughly review the documents provided by the prosecution. He emphasized the importance of ensuring a fair trial process and requested an adjournment, stating that "justice rushed is justice crushed."
Supporting the request for an adjournment, Mr. Adeyinka Kotoye (SAN), the second defence counsel, urged the court to avoid "trial by ambush," emphasizing the need for adequate preparation.
In response, the prosecution objected to the defence's request for an adjournment, disputing claims of unfairness and stating that the additional evidence had been provided in a timely manner. Mr. Oyedepo stressed that the prosecution was not rushing or compromising justice but rather facilitating a smooth legal process.
After considering arguments from both sides, Justice Rahman Oshodi granted the adjournment sought by the defence. The continuation of the trial was rescheduled for May 9, 2024.