Oluwatosin Enesi
Godwin Emefiele, the former Central Bank of Nigeria governor, has requested a forensic review of WhatsApp conversations presented as evidence in his ongoing $4.5 billion and ₦2.8 billion fraud trial.
His legal team, led by Olalekan Ojo, SAN, argues that the review is necessary to verify the authenticity of the digital communications.
Emefiele faces a 19-count charge bordering on receiving gratification and corrupt demands, while his co-defendant, Henry Omoile, faces a three-count charge for unlawful acceptance of gifts by agents.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) presented printed WhatsApp chat logs as evidence, which Emefiele’s team contests, citing concerns about authenticity.
The Ikeja Special Offences Court has fixed September 15, 2025, to rule on Emefiele’s application for forensic analysis of the WhatsApp evidence.
The EFCC counsel, Chineye Okezie, opposed the application, arguing that the defense didn’t provide sufficient details about the proposed forensic examination, including the name of the laboratory and personnel qualifications.
The court’s decision on September 15 will determine whether Emefiele’s request for forensic analysis will be granted.
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