Judge to lawyers: I am unapproachable as Malami, son, wife get ₦500m bail each

Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja has warned lawyers and litigants appearing before him not to approach him for favours in the ongoing trial of former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, SAN, his wife, Bashir Asabe, and son, Abubakar Abdulaziz.

Speaking during Wednesday’s proceedings, Justice Nwite cautioned that his perceived leniency should not be mistaken for weakness.

He said judges operate differently and insisted that no one should attempt to influence his decisions.

“Irrespective of my familiarity with you, when I am dealing with any case, do not approach me,” he warned, adding that any attempt to tarnish his name would be “resisted and dealt with.”

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is prosecuting Malami and his co-defendants on a 16-count charge bordering on conspiracy and money laundering involving more than ₦8.7 billion.

The charges include allegations of disguising, concealing and taking control of funds suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activities, contrary to provisions of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

During the sitting, Justice Nwite granted bail to Malami, his wife and son in the sum of ₦500 million each.

Each defendant is required to produce two sureties in like sum, who must own landed property in Asokoro, Maitama or Gwarinpa.

The judge also ordered that the defendants deposit their international passports with the court and barred them from travelling outside the country without permission.

He further directed that the sureties’ properties and residences be verified by court officials, noting that the defendants would remain in Kuje Correctional Centre until they perfect their bail conditions.

The case was adjourned to February 17, 2026, for continuation of trial.