The trial of former CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele, on fraud allegations hit a roadblock at the Lagos High Court over the forensic examination of a mobile phone and WhatsApp chats. During proceedings at the Special Offences Division in Ikeja, defence counsel Olalekan Ojo (SAN) told Justice Rahman Oshodi that the EFCC obstructed a joint forensic analysis of “iPhone 2,” despite the court registrar and all parties being present on September 24–25, 2025.
Ojo alleged the EFCC denied full access to messages, contrary to court orders, and urged for a fresh order to ensure authenticity. Prosecution counsel Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN) denied obstruction, warning that the defence’s prior online analysis risked data compromise. The iPhone remains on flight mode to prevent tampering.
The defence requested a pause in testimony until forensic verification is complete. Justice Oshodi directed the prosecution to submit its forensic report within 24 hours while allowing EFCC witness testimony to continue.
Emefiele faces 19 counts including gratification, corrupt practices, and abuse of office, while co-defendant Henry Omoile faces separate charges. The trial was adjourned to October 8–9, 2025.
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