By Ayomide Otitoju
Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Federal High Court, Abuja, has recused himself from two cases filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) against former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami.
The judge, who was recently reassigned the cases by Chief Judge John Tsoho, said he withdrew for personal reasons and in the interest of justice. The development came shortly after a civil suit seeking the forfeiture of 57 properties allegedly linked to Malami was called for mention.
The cases were previously handled by Justice Emeka Nwite, who served as a vacation judge during the Yuletide season. The EFCC had charged Malami, his wife, and son with a 16-count alleged money laundering offence. On January 7, Justice Nwite granted them bail of ₦500 million with two sureties, requiring landed property in Asokoro, Maitama, or Gwarinpa, and the submission of travel documents to the court.
EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede, in an interview with Channels Television, stressed that the investigation is not politically motivated. He said the probe predates his tenure and is conducted professionally, without targeting opposition members.
“Let Nigerians understand that this fight must be fought without being partisan,” Olukoyede said. “The former attorney-general has been under investigation for almost two and a half years. There is nothing personal about it, and we have ensured the investigation is thorough and professional.”
He added that the agency proceeded only when confident of a watertight case and dismissed claims of persecution or political bias.
