By Muhammad Mamman
A Federal High Court judge has recused himself from two high-profile cases brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) against Abubakar Malami, Nigeria’s former Attorney-General and Minister of Justice.
Justice Obiora Egwuatu withdrew from the proceedings on Thursday, citing personal reasons and the need to uphold the interest of justice. The decision came during a session for a civil suit seeking the forfeiture of 57 properties allegedly linked to Malami.
The cases had recently been reassigned to Justice Egwuatu by Chief Judge John Tsoho, after previously being handled by Justice Emeka Nwite during the court’s Christmas vacation period.
The development marks another twist in ongoing EFCC investigations into alleged corruption involving the former top legal officer, as the matter awaits reassignment to a new judge.
