Judge Recuses Himself from Ex-AGF Malami's N213bn Forfeiture Case
Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Federal High Court in Abuja has formally withdrawn from presiding over two high-profile cases involving Abubakar Malami, the former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice. This development occurred during the resumed session of the case on Thursday, February 12, 2026, marking a significant turn in the legal proceedings.
Reasons for Withdrawal
In a statement delivered in court, Justice Egwuatu cited personal reasons and emphasized that his decision was made in the interest of justice. He did not elaborate further on the specific personal circumstances, but his recusal underscores the sensitivity and complexity of the cases, which involve substantial financial allegations.
Background of the Case
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is prosecuting Malami on a 16-count charge related to money laundering. The charges stem from an extensive investigation into Malami's tenure in office, with the anti-graft agency alleging illicit financial activities.
In December 2025, the EFCC traced 41 properties valued at approximately N212 billion to Malami as part of this probe. The assets include:
- Hotels
- Residential buildings
- Lands
- Schools
- A printing press
These properties are located across multiple regions, specifically in Kebbi State, Kano State, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), highlighting the widespread nature of the alleged acquisitions.
Implications of the Judge's Recusal
Justice Egwuatu's withdrawal necessitates the reassignment of the cases to another judge, which could lead to potential delays in the judicial process. However, legal experts note that such recusals are not uncommon in high-stakes cases to ensure impartiality and uphold the integrity of the proceedings.
The EFCC's case against Malami continues to draw significant public and media attention, given his former role as the nation's chief law officer. The forfeiture of assets worth N213 billion represents one of the largest financial recoveries pursued by the commission in recent years.
As the legal battle unfolds, stakeholders are closely monitoring developments, with expectations that a new judge will be appointed promptly to avoid prolonged adjournments. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications for anti-corruption efforts in Nigeria.
