Trial Delayed for Former CBN Governor Emefiele Due to Absence

The trial of Godwin Emefiele, the former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, and his co-defendant Henry Omoile has been delayed. The hearing was set to take place on Tuesday at the Lagos State Special Offences Court but was postponed because neither defendant was present.

Justice Rahman Oshodi announced that the trial will continue on November 11, 12, and 13, 2026. Emefiele is facing serious charges from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) related to alleged abuse of office and fraud involving about $4.5 billion and N2.8 billion.

Omoile is facing three counts related to the unlawful acceptance of gifts. Both defendants have pleaded not guilty to all charges against them.

During the hearing, Emefiele’s lawyer, Labi Lawal, informed the court that Emefiele was unavailable because he was attending another trial in Abuja. The lawyer for the EFCC, C.C. Okezie, confirmed this, stating that Emefiele had sent a letter explaining his absence.

Omoile’s lawyer, A. Kotoye, raised concerns about the situation, noting that he had not received any notification regarding Emefiele’s absence. He questioned why the court would treat Omoile as if he were not part of the proceedings.