By Trendsetter Tribune 
Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, Maitama, Abuja, on Wednesday cautioned lawyers and litigants involved in the ongoing criminal case against former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, reminding them not to approach him for favors or special treatment.
The warning came during proceedings in the case filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) against Malami, his wife, Hajia Bashir Asabe, and their son, Abubakar Abdulaziz Malami. The defendants are facing allegations of money laundering said to run into billions of naira.
Justice Nwite noted that any familiarity he may have with members of the Bar should not be misinterpreted as an opportunity to influence court processes.
“Irrespective of my familiarity with you, when I am dealing with any case, do not approach me,” he said, adding that lawyers should rely on diligent legal work rather than personal appeals.
According to the judge, the integrity of the court will be defended against any attempts to interfere or compromise proceedings.
“Any attempt to tarnish my name will be resisted and dealt with,” he stated.
Allegations Before the Court
According to the EFCC, the defendants are accused of conspiring to procure, conceal, disguise, and launder funds alleged to be proceeds of unlawful activities, in violation of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
They are facing a 16-count charge. Among the claims presented by prosecutors:
- Malami and his son allegedly procured Metropolitan Auto Tech Limited to conceal ₦1,014,848,500 said to have been lodged in a Sterling Bank account between July 2022 and June 2025.
- Malami, his wife, and son are alleged to have conspired to disguise the origin of ₦1,049,173,926.13 paid through the Union Bank account of Meethaq Hotels Limited between November 2022 and September 2024.
- The EFCC further alleges that Malami and his son indirectly took control of ₦1,362,887,872.96, which investigators claim were proceeds of unlawful activities.
These remain allegations at this stage and have not been proven in court.
Bail Granted — Defendants Maintain Innocence
Justice Nwite granted bail to Malami, his wife, and his son in the sum of ₦500 million each, with two sureties in like sum, who must depose to affidavits of means.
The defendants have pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Malami and members of his legal team have previously maintained that the funds referenced by the EFCC were legitimate and not connected to wrongdoing, insisting that the charges are unfounded.
Case Continues
The matter remains before the court, and proceedings are ongoing.
The judge reiterated that the court will decide strictly on the basis of evidence presented during trial and in accordance with the law.