Judge Steps Down from Malami’s ₦212 Billion Case

Judge Steps Down from Malami’s ₦212 Billion Case
EFCC alleges properties in Abuja, Kano, Birnin-Kebbi acquired illegally.
Interim forfeiture ordered; final proceedings will continue under new judge.

Chief Judge John Tsoho of the Federal High Court is set to assign a new judge to oversee the asset forfeiture case involving former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had obtained an interim forfeiture order for assets valued at ₦212.8 billion on 7 January. The properties, located in Abuja, Kano, and Birnin-Kebbi in Kebbi State, are alleged to have been acquired through proceeds of Malami’s unlawful activities.

The initial order was issued by Justice Emeka Nwite, who on Tuesday returned the case file to the Chief Judge for reassignment. Nwite had ordered interim forfeiture of 57 properties on 6 January and adjourned proceedings to 27 January for the issuance of a final forfeiture order.

The matter, however, did not appear among the 24 cases listed for hearing on Tuesday, though some lawyers who filed opposing processes were present. EFCC’s counsel, Jibrin Okutepa, SAN, reminded the court of the scheduled report of compliance and requested the conclusion of the proceedings.

Judge Steps Down from Malami’s ₦212 Billion Case

Justice Nwite explained that it is court tradition for cases assigned during vacation periods, such as the recent Christmas and New Year break, to be returned to the Chief Judge for reassignment once regular sessions resume. The Chief Judge will now assign the matter to a judge of his choice to handle the proceedings.