Dismiss Emefiele’s Application Challenging Jurisdiction – EFCC Tells Court

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has urged Justice Rahman Oshodi of the Lagos State Special Offences Court, Ikeja, to dismiss a jurisdictional challenge filed by the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele.

Representing the EFCC, Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN) described the application as a deliberate tactic to delay the prosecution of economic and financial crimes.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that Oyedepo argued that the Lagos State High Court has the jurisdiction to hear and decide the charges on their merits.

Emefiele’s legal team, led by Olalekan Ojo (SAN), countered that the court lacks jurisdiction to preside over the matter. Ojo argued that prosecuting Emefiele in a state high court for alleged abuse of office presents constitutional and legal conflicts.

Ojo further stated that counts one to four of the 26 charges against Emefiele are unconstitutional and not grounded in existing Nigerian laws. He maintained that the court cannot adjudicate offences related to abuse of office tied to Emefiele’s role as CBN Governor. On these grounds, Ojo urged the court to dismiss the charges.

Oyedepo rebutted, insisting that the charges pertain to economic and financial crimes under the EFCC’s purview. He emphasized that Lagos State is the appropriate jurisdiction since the alleged offences occurred there. He called on the court to dismiss the jurisdictional challenge for lacking merit and proceed with the case.

Justice Oshodi, after hearing arguments from both sides, adjourned for a ruling on the jurisdictional challenge to January 7, 2025.

Emefiele and a co-defendant, Herry Omoile, are facing multiple charges, including accepting bribes, corruption, fraudulent property documentation, and granting undue advantages to associates in violation of the Corrupt Practices Act 2000. Both defendants have pleaded not guilty to all charges.

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