The Special Offences Court in Ikeja, Lagos, has adjourned the forensic examination of a key digital exhibit in the ongoing trial of former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele, to January 5 and 8, 2026.
Justice Rahman Oshodi fixed the new dates after prosecutors and defence counsel disagreed at the previous sitting on the conditions for examining the device, identified in court as Exhibit I — Emefiele’s mobile phone. The prosecution had insisted that the inspection must take place under tightly controlled conditions, including a mandatory “no-internet” environment.
In his ruling, Justice Oshodi ordered that the inspection be conducted in the presence of lawyers from both sides, a certified forensic expert, and under the supervision of the court registrar. He also directed that Exhibit I remain in the court’s custody throughout the trial and that the device be examined through screen-mirroring technology to prevent any alteration of its contents.
Emefiele is facing a 19-count charge brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which alleges that he engaged in corruption, made illegal demands, and abused his office during his tenure as CBN Governor. His co-defendant, Henry Omoile, is answering to three counts relating to the alleged unlawful acceptance of gifts. Both men have pleaded not guilty.
Emefiele, who led the CBN from June 2014 to June 2023, has been the focus of several investigations since his suspension by President Bola Tinubu in 2023. His tenure—initially credited for various stabilisation and intervention programmes—later came under intense scrutiny over allegations of financial misconduct, controversial policy decisions, and alleged breaches of regulatory procedures.
The current case centres on claims that illicit financial flows amounting to about $4.5 billion were diverted through CBN channels during his leadership. The EFCC also alleges that he demanded or received bribes from individuals and businesses seeking regulatory approvals or access to foreign exchange windows.
Emefiele was first arrested in 2023 and has since faced multiple charges, some of which were later withdrawn before the anti-graft agency filed the consolidated 19-count charge now before the Lagos court.
The upcoming forensic inspection of his mobile device is expected to play a significant role in verifying digital communications, financial records, and other evidence linked to the alleged crimes.
The trial resumes in January 2026.