Emefiele Co-Defendant Statement Voluntariness Trial

A trial-within-a-trial is underway in the Lagos State Special Offences Court to determine if statements made by Henry Omoile, co-defendant to former Nigeria — Central Bank of Nigeria Governor Godwin Emefiele, were voluntary. Godwin Emefiele faces a 19-count charge of gratification and corrupt demands in an alleged $4.5 billion fraud, while Henry Omoile faces three counts related to unlawful acceptance of gifts. The Nigeria — Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) witness, Alvan Gurumnaan, testified that Henry Omoile's statements were made voluntarily and without duress, despite the defense's objection. Justice Rahman Oshodi ordered the mini-trial after defense counsel argued the statements were not voluntary. The EFCC admitted four statements as evidence, taken on February 26 and 27, 2024. The witness confirmed Henry Omoile was in custody and cautioned, and his lawyer was present, though no video recording was made, which is part of EFCC's standard procedure. The trial-within-a-trial is adjourned to January 15 and 16, 2026.