May 4, 2026 | SUNTV Global Channel
A major development has emerged in the ongoing high-profile fraud trial involving former Central Bank chief , as a Lagos court admitted key evidence against his co-defendant.
Justice of the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja ruled on Monday that the extrajudicial statement made by is admissible in court, dismissing claims that it was obtained under duress.
Omoile had challenged the use of the statement, alleging it was extracted through coercion, inducement, and oppressive conditions by operatives of the (EFCC). His objection led to a “trial-within-trial” — a legal procedure used to determine whether a confession was made voluntarily.
However, delivering his ruling, Justice Oshodi held that the prosecution successfully proved that the statement was made freely.
“I have carefully considered the evidence presented. There is no proof of physical harm, and I am satisfied that the statement was made voluntarily,” the judge ruled.
The court subsequently admitted the statements, dated February 26, 2024, as evidence, marking a significant boost for the prosecution’s case.
Omoile is currently facing a three-count charge related to the unlawful acceptance of gifts as an agent, while Emefiele is standing trial on a 19-count charge bordering on alleged gratification and corrupt demands during his tenure at the apex bank. Both defendants have pleaded not guilty.
During proceedings, prosecution counsel C.C. Okezie argued in favour of admitting the statements, while defence counsel Labi Lawal, SAN, insisted they were compromised and should be rejected.
With the court’s decision, the prosecution is expected to rely heavily on the admitted statements as the trial progresses.
The case has been adjourned to June 26, June 30, and July 6 and 8, 2026, for continuation of hearing.
SUNTV Global Channel will keep you updated as this high-stakes trial unfolds.
