reports that the statement was made by Henry Omoile, who is standing trial alongside Emefiele, and the court will determine whether it was made voluntarily and is admissible as evidence.

Justice Rahman Oshodi fixed the date after both prosecution and defence counsel adopted their final written addresses during a trial-within-trial proceeding.

The hearing is focused on whether Omoile’s statement was obtained under lawful conditions or through coercion, as alleged by the defence.

Emefiele is facing a 19-count charge bordering on alleged gratification, corrupt demands, and abuse of office, linked to transactions worth about $4.5 billion and ₦2.8 billion.

Omoile is also facing a three-count charge over alleged unlawful acceptance of gifts relating to dealings with the Central Bank of Nigeria.

Omoile’s counsel, Adeyinka Kotoye (SAN), argued that the statement should be rejected, claiming it was not made voluntarily and violated provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, including lack of video recording and concerns over coercion.

Emefiele’s lawyer, Olalekan Ojo (SAN), also urged the court to discount the statement, arguing that involuntary statements are inadmissible under the Evidence Act.

However, the prosecution, led by Director of Public Prosecutions Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), insisted the statement was properly obtained and made in the presence of Omoile’s lawyer.

He added that the content of the statement did not support claims of coercion and did not implicate Emefiele.

The court adjourned ruling to May 4, 2026, while also fixing June 26 and June 30, 2026, for continuation of the main trial.