Justice Obiora Egwuatu Withdraws From EFCC Cases Against Malami

Justice Obiora Egwuatu has withdrawn from two cases filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) against former Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami.

The judge, who had recently been assigned the cases by the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, said his decision to recuse himself was based on personal reasons and the need to ensure justice.

The two cases involve a multi-billion-naira asset forfeiture matter concerning 57 properties and an N8.7 billion money laundering charge against Malami, his wife Asabe Bashir, and his son Abdulaziz Malami.

The development came shortly after the civil suit for the forfeiture of the 57 properties, reportedly linked to Malami, was called for mention in court.

EFCC’s lawyer, Ekele Iheanacho, SAN, told the court that Malami’s counsel, Joseph Daudu, SAN, had requested an adjournment to February 16 because he was attending another case at the Court of Appeal.

Shortly after, Justice Egwuatu announced his recusal, saying: “Gentlemen, for personal reasons and in the interest of justice, I will recuse myself from this case and in the other sister case.”

Justice Egwuatu added that the case files would be returned to the Chief Judge for reassignment.

Although Daudu was absent, lawyers representing other respondents and parties with interest in some of the properties already temporarily forfeited to the Federal Government were present.

The cases were initially handled by Justice Emeka Nwite during the Christmas vacation.

After the break, the Chief Judge reassigned them to Justice Egwuatu, scheduling the civil case for February 12 and the money laundering matter for February 16.

KanyiDaily recalls that the DSS also arraigned Abubakar Malami, and his son, Abdulaziz, on a five-count charge linked to alleged terrorism financing and illegal possession of firearms.