Dare Babalola
Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Abuja Federal High Court on Thursday withdrew from two cases brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) against former Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami.
At the court session on Thursday, Egwuatu said he decided to withdraw from the cases for personal reasons and in the interest of justice.
The judge was recently reassigned to the cases by the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho.
The development came as a civil suit seeking the forfeiture of 57 properties allegedly linked to Malami was called for mention in court.
The cases were initially handled by Justice Emeka Nwite, who served as a vacation judge during the Christmas period.
Malami is also being prosecuted by the Federal Government, through the Department of State Services (DSS) for alleged terrorism financing.
The EFCC also told the court that Malami used his position to acquire assets, including luxury properties in Abuja, Kebbi, and Kano, and alleges he disguised the origin of these funds through complex financial transactions.
A Federal High Court in Abuja initially ordered Malami’s remand over the alleged ₦9 billion money laundering, with his trial set to continue.
Malami, however, maintains his innocence, claiming the allegations are false and politically motivated.
His legal team argued the EFCC’s claims lack evidence and urges respect for his presumption of innocence.
The outcome of this high-profile case could set a significant precedent for accountability among Nigeria’s former public officials.
