Alleged Judicial Bias: Appeal Court Reserves Judgment on Emefiele’s Bid to Disqualify Trial Judge

The Court of Appeal in Lagos has reserved judgment in a legal appeal by former CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele. Emefiele is challenging a trial judge's refusal to recuse himself from a criminal trial over allegations that his ruling created an impression of judicial bias. The dispute began during the trial when the prosecution questioned a witness about a $400,000 payment, which Emefiele's lawyers argued was leading.

Justice Oshodi of the Lagos State Special Offences Court dismissed Emefiele's objection but allowed the leading question under an Evidence Act provision. Emefiele's counsel appealed the ruling, arguing that the judge had prejudged the issue and created a perception of bias. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), however, urged the appellate court to reject Emefiele's appeal and uphold the trial judge's decision, arguing that an examination of the testimony would show the judge acted correctly. The court reserved judgment, which will be communicated to the parties.