NEWS
Judicial Shake-Up as Justice Obiora Egwuatu Withdraws from High-Profile Corruption Trials Involving Former AGF, Abubakar Malami, Amid Multi-Billion Naira Asset Probe
The legal proceedings surrounding the alleged financial misconduct involving former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, have taken a significant turn following the withdrawal of Justice Obiora Egwuatu from presiding over two separate cases before the Federal High Court, Abuja.
Justice Egwuatu announced his decision during the resumed hearing of the matters, explaining that his withdrawal was based on personal considerations and the overriding need to uphold the integrity of the judicial process. While refraining from disclosing specific reasons behind the decision, the judge emphasized that stepping aside was necessary in the interest of justice and fairness to all parties involved.
The cases, initiated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, centre on a 16-count charge bordering on allegations of money laundering against the former chief law officer of the federation. The prosecution forms part of a broader investigation into Malami’s stewardship during the immediate past administration, a tenure that has attracted intense public and legal scrutiny.
According to disclosures made by the anti-graft agency in December 2025, investigators allegedly traced no fewer than 41 properties with an estimated cumulative value of about ₦213 billion to the former minister. The properties reportedly consist of luxury hotels, residential complexes, large parcels of land, educational institutions, and a printing facility.
Investigative findings indicate that the assets are spread across multiple locations, including Kebbi State, Kano State, and the Federal Capital Territory, raising further questions about the scale and legitimacy of the acquisitions.
With Justice Egwuatu’s withdrawal, the high-stakes cases are now expected to be reassigned by the appropriate judicial authority for continued trial and determination. The development is widely viewed as a crucial procedural step aimed at ensuring transparency and eliminating any potential conflict that could undermine the credibility of the judicial process.
Despite the weight of the allegations, Malami has consistently rejected the claims, maintaining that the charges are politically motivated and designed to tarnish his reputation.
However, the EFCC has remained resolute, insisting that its investigation is backed by credible evidence capable of sustaining the prosecution and securing conviction where warranted.
Observers within Nigeria’s legal and political circles are closely monitoring the unfolding developments, as the outcome of the trial is expected to have far-reaching implications for accountability and anti-corruption efforts in the country, a position similarly highlighted by media platform Eyes Of Lagos, which continues to track the case as it progresses through the judicial system.