Former Central Bank Governor Emefiele has requested for forensic examination of WhatsApp conversations being used as evidence in the ongoing $4.5 billion fraud case. The inquiry aims to shed light on the allegations against the accused parties. Emefiele’s pursuit of a meticulous review underscores the commitment to ensuring transparency and accountability in the trial proceedings.
Emefiele, through his counsel, Olalekan Ojo, SAN, is challenging the authenticity of the digital messages presented by the prosecution and has asked the court to permit a forensic expert to examine both the mobile device identified as an “iPhone 2” used to extract the messages, as well as the printed chat logs. However, opposing the application, EFCC counsel Chineye Okezie told the court that once such an exhibit has been admitted into evidence, the court assumes custody of the item and it must remain intact until the conclusion of the trial.
She requested that the court include provisions in its order to maintain a proper chain of custody and that the forensic analysis be conducted in the presence of a qualified representative nominated by the prosecution.
Emefiele is standing trial alongside his co-defendant, Henry Omoile, on a 19-count charge bordering on conspiracy, money laundering, and fraud, brought against them by the EFCC. Justice Oshodi adjourned the matter to September 15, 2025, for ruling on the application.
