Justice Rahman Oshodi of the Special Offences Court, Ikeja, on Monday granted former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele, permission to engage forensic experts to examine WhatsApp conversations and a mobile device, “iPhone 2,” admitted as evidence in his trial.
Emefiele, standing trial alongside Henry Omoile on a 19-count charge filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), is accused of abuse of office, gratification, corruption, and fraudulent property transactions involving $4.5 billion and N2.8 billion.
His counsel, Olalekan Ojo, SAN, argued that an independent forensic review was necessary to verify the authenticity of the extracted WhatsApp messages presented by the prosecution.
The EFCC, represented by counsel C. C. Okezie, opposed the application, insisting that exhibits in court custody must remain intact and expressing concern that the defence had not disclosed details of the proposed experts or laboratory. She suggested the EFCC’s forensic department oversee the process to maintain the chain of custody.
In his ruling, Justice Oshodi held that the defence was entitled to an independent review, provided safeguards were maintained. He ordered that the inspection take place on September 24 and 26, 2025, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., in the presence of one lawyer and one forensic expert per party, under court supervision.
The judge further directed that the device, marked Exhibit E, remain in the custody of the court at all times. The matter was adjourned to October 7, 8, and 9, 2025, for continuation of trial.
