A Special Offences Court in Ikeja, Lagos, has fixed September 15, 2025, to rule on an application by former Central Bank of Nigeria Governor Godwin Emefiele, seeking a forensic examination of WhatsApp messages admitted in evidence in his ongoing trial for alleged $4.5 billion and ₦2.8 billion fraud.

Emefiele’s counsel argued that the forensic analysis was necessary to verify the authenticity and integrity of the evidence. However, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission opposed the application, citing procedural requirements and concerns about tampering with the evidence. The court adjourned ruling on the issue till September 15 after listening to arguments from both sides. Emefiele is standing trial alongside his co-defendant, Henry Omoile, on a 19-count charge bordering on conspiracy, money laundering, and fraud.