A Lagos court granted Godwin Emefiele leave to conduct an independent forensic review of WhatsApp messages and a mobile device admitted as evidence in his corruption trial.
The Lagos Special Offences High Court, Ikeja, has granted former Central Bank Governor Godwin Emefiele permission to subject WhatsApp messages and a mobile device tendered as evidence against him to independent forensic examination.
Emefiele, standing trial alongside his associate Henry Omoile, faces charges of abuse of office, gratification, and fraudulent property transactions involving $4.5 billion and ₦2.8 billion.
Justice Rahman Oshodi ruled Monday that the defence could conduct the review, provided safeguards protect the integrity of the exhibits. Defence counsel Olalekan Ojo (SAN) had sought leave for an expert to inspect the “iPhone 2” device and verify the authenticity of WhatsApp conversations.
EFCC counsel C. C. Okezie opposed, arguing the exhibits must remain in court custody. The judge directed the inspection to take place September 24 and 26, with both parties limited to one lawyer and one forensic expert each, under court supervision.
The case resumes October 7–9.